Chapter 4, Problem 1LTB

What is meant by the term induced fit?

Summary Introduction

To write:

The meaning of term induced fit.

Introduction:

Induced fit model or theory is a theory for action of enzymes. Enzymes are molecules which increases the speed of a reaction. Induced fit theory of enzyme was given after modifying previously accepted lock and key hypothesis.

Explanation of Solution

Induced fit model or theory is modification of the lock and key hypothesis. In lock and key hypothesis, it was stated that each enzyme has an active site for which specific substrate molecule of the same shape is present. This substrates fits in the active site of enzyme like key fits in the lock. This was later modified into induced fit theory which states that, substrates fits in the active site of the enzyme like key and lock, but initially the structure or shape of substrate is not like the active site. So, this fit is induced by altering its structure or shape, so that it becomes like an active site of enzyme to fit properly.

Conclusion

In the induced fit model of enzymes, the shape or structure of the enzyme is modified to make it like an active site of enzyme, so that it can fit properly.