Name: Alexa
Status: other
Grade: 12+
Location: TX
Country: USA
Date: Fall 2011
Question:
In cells, the activity of enzymes is often regulated by other molecules. Why is this necessary?
Replies:
Alexa,
In a self regulating system, the human body above all, there's always
a need for balance and equilibrium.
Enzymes are catalysts that lower the activation energy of chemical reactions.
Some molecules known as substrates help start reactions. Then there
are molecules that help to increase reaction rates and are known as
activators. Others help reduce the reaction rates and are called
inhibitors.
It's these mechanisms that help living cells reach an equilibrium
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state either by increasing or reducing the reaction rates.
Afterall, too much of anything, or too little of some things, can be harmful.
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