Chapter 19, Problem 19.60QP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The kind of amino acid R groups present at the active site of the enzyme that catalyzes a reaction by modification of the local $\text{pH}$ has to be determined.

Concept Introduction:

In an enzyme-catalyzed reaction firstly the enzyme and substrate approach each other to form an enzyme-substrate complex that undergoes some transformation to form enzyme product and finally the enzyme is removed from the substrate and the product formed is released off.

Since the active site may behave as either an electron donor or an electron acceptor of a proton so an environment of appropriate $\text{pH}$ can be created for the transition state that can provide the substrate with optimum $\text{pH}$ conditions. This also speeds up the reaction and lowers the activation energy.