What is the enzyme lock and key mechanism?

Enzymes are proteins and they have specific shapes.Do you know what active site is? Region where the chemical reaction happen, this is a different shape on different enzymesDo you know what substrate is? Substance which enzyme acts onLock and key mechanism- this is the theory of how enzymes are specific to their substrates (specific shape of active site only fits a certain substrate) Enzymes only catalyse one reaction!DRAW ENZYME WITH SUBSTRATE WITH COMPLEMENTARY SHAPE AND ONE WITH WRONG SHAPESUBSTRATE WITH COMPLEMENTARY SHAPE FITS INTO ACTIVE SITE AND CAN BE BROKEN DOWN BY ENZYMEThis specific fit is like a LOCK AND KEY, hence the name and this is a good way to remember it.DRAW SUBSTRATE BROKEN DOWN AND PRODUCTS RELEASED FROM ACTIVE SITE NOTICE ENZYME IS UNCHANGED, AND CAN BE USED AGAINExtra question: What is enzyme substrate complex?

MB
Answered by Millie B. Biology tutor

4188 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is homeostasis?


Can you explain the limiting reagents of photosynthesis?


Name 3 things that can affect the activity of enzymes


Humans need to remove (excrete) waste products from the bloodstream. Describe the processes that produce waste products and how the products are removed from the body. (6 marks)


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning