What are inhibitors in chemistry?

What are inhibitors in chemistry?

Inhibitors are substances that slow down or prevent chemical reactions by interfering with the reactants or catalysts.

Can you give me an example of an inhibitor?

Sure! A common example is a competitive inhibitor, which resembles the substrate and competes for the active site of an enzyme.

How do inhibitors affect enzyme activity?

Inhibitors can decrease the rate of enzyme-catalyzed reactions, affecting the overall metabolic processes in organisms.

Are there different types of inhibitors?

Yes, there are several types, including competitive, non-competitive, and uncompetitive inhibitors, each affecting enzymes differently.

What is the significance of inhibitors in drug design?

Inhibitors are crucial in drug design as they can target specific enzymes or receptors, helping to treat various diseases.