Topic > Enzymes: the main concepts

Enzymes are protein substances that play a very important role in various biochemical processes in the body. “Enzymes are present in all living cells and promote the conversion of some substances into others. Enzymes act as catalysts in virtually all biochemical reactions that take place in living organisms. As of 2013, over 5000 different enzymes have been described. a crucial role in all life processes, directing and regulating the metabolism of substances” (enzyme.expasy.org/17.01.18) Say no to plagiarism Get a tailor-made essay on “Why violent video games should not be banned”? Get an original essay The most important function of enzymes is the acceleration and initiation of biochemical reactions in the body, many, if not most, of which occur only in the presence of the corresponding enzymes. The function of each enzyme is unique,. that is, each enzyme activates only one biochemical process. In this regard, the body has a huge number of enzymes - more than 3000. Also as enzymes functions: they participate in the digestion process, help the body digest food; accelerate the process of self-purification of the body; normalize metabolism, contribute to weight loss; expel toxins from the body; strengthen immunity; promote the renewal of body cells; convert nutrients into energy; accelerate wound healing; fight infections. Depending on the type of reactions that the body catalyzes, enzymes perform various functions. Most often they are divided into three main groups: food enzymes, digestive enzymes and metabolic enzymes. Digestive enzymes are released into the gastrointestinal tract, destroy nutrients, contributing to their absorption into the systemic circulation. There are three main categories of such enzymes: amylase, protease, lipase. Amylase breaks down carbohydrates and is found in saliva, pancreatic secretions and intestinal contents. Different types of amylase break down different sugars. Proteases, present in gastric juice, pancreatic secretion and intestinal contents, help digest proteins. Lipase, present in gastric juice and pancreatic secretion, breaks down fats. Metabolic enzymes catalyze biochemical processes within cells. Each organ or tissue in the body has its own network of enzymes. Food enzymes are found in foods. Especially the need for enzyme intake from food a person experiences with age, because the natural formation of their body decreases over time. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a custom essayThe most intensive enzymes work at a temperature equivalent to body temperature (about 37°C). Enzymes are destroyed at high temperatures. The same goes for the cold, at low temperatures the enzymes "fall asleep". It is this characteristic of enzymes to which we dedicate our laboratory experiment.