What are the mechanisms of enzyme activation?

What are the mechanisms of enzyme activation?

Enzyme activation can occur through various mechanisms, including allosteric regulation, covalent modification, and proteolytic cleavage. Would you like to know more about any specific mechanism?

Can you explain allosteric regulation?

Allosteric regulation involves the binding of an effector molecule at a site other than the active site, causing a conformational change that enhances or inhibits enzyme activity. This allows for fine-tuning of metabolic pathways.

What about covalent modification?

Covalent modification involves the addition or removal of chemical groups, such as phosphate groups, which can activate or deactivate enzymes. This process is often reversible and plays a crucial role in cellular signaling.

Are there any examples of enzymes that undergo these mechanisms?

Yes, for example, glycogen phosphorylase is activated by covalent modification through phosphorylation, while aspartate transcarbamoylase is regulated allosterically by ATP and CTP.