Factors Affecting Enzyme Activity

Enviromental Factors

Cause

Factors like temperature and pH, which impact enzyme structure and function.

Regulatory Molecules

Cause

Inhibitors, activators, and cofactors that modify enzyme activity.

Physical Structure of the Enzyme

Cause

The presence of specific shapes and structures at the active site.

Effect

Structural changes may block substrate access, decreasing enzyme activity.

Concentration

Cause

Enzyme and substrate concentrations that determine the rate of reaction.

Genetic Factors

Cause

Mutations in the DNA coding for the enzyme can alter its structure.

Effect

Changes in enzyme shape affect its ability to bind to substrates, decreasing activity.

Cellular Conditions

Cause

Enzymes often operate in specific cell locations.

Effect

Misplacement or redistribution can reduce activity by separating enzymes from their substrates.