What are enzyme inhibitors and how do they work?

What are enzyme inhibitors and how do they work?

Enzyme inhibitors are molecules that bind to enzymes and decrease their activity. They can work by blocking the active site or altering the enzyme's shape.

Can you explain the different types of enzyme inhibitors?

Sure! There are two main types: competitive inhibitors, which compete with the substrate for the active site, and non-competitive inhibitors, which bind to a different part of the enzyme.

How do competitive and non-competitive inhibitors differ in their effects?

Competitive inhibitors can be overcome by increasing substrate concentration, while non-competitive inhibitors reduce the overall number of active enzymes regardless of substrate concentration.

Are there any real-world applications of enzyme inhibitors?

Yes, enzyme inhibitors are used in medicine, such as in drugs for treating high blood pressure and cancer, by targeting specific enzymes.