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Enzymes are
protein molecules which is responsible for all biological activities in
human cells. Enzymes are organic catalysts that increase the rate at which
foods are broken down and absorbed by the body and help various metabolic
functions in the body take place. The vital foundation of life will be
severely impaired without enzymes. Human body will not be able to digest,
absorb and utilize nutrient. Enzymes are very specific in comparison to
inorganic catalysts such as acids, bases, metals and metal oxides. Enzyme
can break down particular compounds. |
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Enzymes are biocatalyst,
and by their mere presence, and without being consumed in the
process, enzymes can speed up chemical processes that would
otherwise run very slowly. After the reaction is complete, the
enzyme is released again, ready to start another reaction.
In some cases, their action is limited to specific bonds in the
compounds with which, they react.
The molecule(s) that an enzyme acts on is known as its substrate(s),
which is converted into a product or products. A part of large
enzyme molecule will reversibly bind to the substrate(s) and then a
specialised part(s) of the enzyme will catalyse the specific change
necessary to change the substrate into a product.
For each type of reaction in a cell there is a different enzyme and
they are classified into six broad categories namely hydrolytic,
oxidising and reducing, synthesising, transferring, lytic and
isomerising. During industrial process, the specific action of
enzymes allows high yields to be obtained with a minimum of unwanted
by-products.
Enzymes can work at atmospheric pressure and in mild conditions with
respect to temperature and acidity (pH). Most enzymes function
optimally at a temperature of 30°C-70°C and at pH values, which are
near the neutral point (pH 7). Now-a-days, special enzymes have been
developed that work at higher temperatures for specific
applications.
Enzyme processes are potentially energy saving and save investing in
special equipment resistant to heat, pressure or corrosion. Enzymes,
due to their efficiency, specific action, the mild conditions in
which they work and their high biodegradability, they are very well
suited for a wide range of industrial applications.
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