Mutations can occur in DNA. Describe what effect a mutation can have on the function of an enzyme.

A mutation is a change in the DNA base sequence. This causes a change in the amino acid that is synthesised, and this could change the shape of the active site on an enzyme. The shape of the active site may not be complimentary to the substrate anymore, so the substrate may bot be able bind to the active site. As a result, the enzyme cannot function. Alternatively, the amino acid synthesised could change the shape of the active site such that it is more complimentary to the active site of the enzyme. This means that the substrate may be able to bind to the enzyme better, making the enzyme more effective.