What are some examples of enzyme inhibition?

What are some examples of enzyme inhibition?

Enzyme inhibition occurs when a molecule binds to an enzyme and decreases its activity. Common examples include competitive inhibition, where an inhibitor competes with the substrate for the active site, and non-competitive inhibition, where the inhibitor binds to a different site.

Can you give me specific examples of inhibitors?

Sure! One example is the drug methotrexate, which inhibits the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase. Another is aspirin, which inhibits cyclooxygenase enzymes.

How do these inhibitors affect biological processes?

These inhibitors can disrupt normal biological processes. For instance, methotrexate is used in cancer treatment to inhibit cell division, while aspirin reduces inflammation by inhibiting cyclooxygenase.

Are there any natural enzyme inhibitors?

Yes, many natural compounds act as enzyme inhibitors. For example, certain plant alkaloids and flavonoids can inhibit enzymes involved in various metabolic pathways.