Competitive inhibition is a process where an inhibitor molecule binds to the active site of an enzyme, preventing the substrate from binding. Since the inhibitor and substrate compete for the same site, the rate of the reaction decreases, but it can be overcome by increasing the substrate concentration. Think of it like two people trying to sit in the same chair – only one can sit at a time! 🪑
This type of inhibition directly affects the enzyme's activity by reducing its ability to catalyze reactions effectively. Understanding competitive inhibition is crucial for drug design and metabolic regulation. In essence, it's a tug-of-war at the enzyme's active site! 🤼
Match the terms with their definitions:
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| 1. Enzyme | A. A substance that reduces enzyme activity |
| 2. Substrate | B. The location on the enzyme where the substrate binds |
| 3. Active Site | C. A biological catalyst |
| 4. Inhibitor | D. The molecule upon which an enzyme acts |
| 5. Competitive Inhibition | E. Inhibition where the inhibitor binds to the active site |
Complete the following paragraph with the correct terms:
In __________, an __________ binds to the __________ of an enzyme, preventing the __________ from binding. This type of inhibition can be overcome by increasing the concentration of the __________. The inhibitor and substrate __________ for the same binding site.
Explain how competitive inhibition is used in the development of drugs, providing a specific example.
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