An enzyme is a specialized protein that acts as a biological catalyst, accelerating chemical reactions in living organisms by lowering the activation energy required for the reactions to occur. Enzymes are highly specific, each typically catalyzing a single type of reaction or acting on a specific substrate, which binds to the enzyme's active site. This specificity is due to the unique three-dimensional structure of the enzyme, which determines its function. Enzymes play critical roles in various biological processes, including digestion, energy production, DNA replication, and cellular metabolism, ensuring that these processes occur efficiently and at the necessary rates to sustain life. Their activity can be regulated by factors such as temperature, pH, and the presence of inhibitors or activators, making them essential targets for therapeutic drugs and biotechnological applications.
