What are enzyme inhibitors and how are they used in medicine?

What are enzyme inhibitors and how are they used in medicine?

Enzyme inhibitors are substances that slow down or stop enzyme activity. In medicine, they are used to treat various conditions by blocking specific enzymes.

Can you give me some examples of enzyme inhibitors used in drugs?

Sure! Common examples include ACE inhibitors for hypertension and protease inhibitors for HIV treatment.

How do these inhibitors work at a molecular level?

Enzyme inhibitors bind to the active site of an enzyme or to another part of the enzyme, preventing substrate binding and reducing the reaction rate.

Are there any side effects associated with enzyme inhibitors?

Yes, side effects can vary depending on the specific inhibitor, but they may include nausea, fatigue, or allergic reactions.

How are enzyme inhibitors discovered and developed?

They are often discovered through screening compounds in laboratories, followed by optimization and clinical trials to ensure safety and efficacy.