BBCCT-107

Enzymes (Theory)

About the Course

The branch of biochemistry that deals with properties, activities and significance of enzymes is called as enzymology. It is one of the core branches of Biochemistry. It is study of enzymes, their kinetics, structure and function. Lately, there have been several major developments in the field of enzymology. This course is mainly for the students taking degree courses with substantial biochemistry component. However, it is also of immense value to students from other science backgrounds-chemistry and life sciences. This course is written with the requirements of distance learners firmly in mind. It is intended to provide an introduction to enzymology. A balanced approach has been adopted to include theoretical, analytical and applied concepts of the subject.

We have attempted to define most of the scientific terms. They have been placed in context when they first appear. We have tried to deal comprehensively with the kinetics, structures and mechanism of enzymes. Enzymology also involves a basic level of mathematics and some of the equations which are derived may seem complicated at first sight. The derivation of the equations on enzyme kinetics are based on the biochemical assumptions and then followed on logical reasoning and analysis.

Objectives

  • explain the concept of enzymes, their nomenclature and their components;

  • describe the enzymes kinetics;

  • discuss the mechanism and regulation of enzyme; and

  • explain the role of multienzyme complexes.

Self Learning Material

Block-1.pdf

In the first block, (Block 1) the concept of enzymes has been introduced to the learners (Unit 1). Sections on nomenclature of enzymes are further subdivided into subclasses of enzymes. The principle and theories underlying enzyme catalysis are described in the following unit (Unit 2). Several factors affecting the enzyme activity are also discussed in the Unit 3.

Block-2.pdf

The second block, (Block 2) deals specifically with the enzyme catalysis. The kinetics of mono substrate and bisubstrate reactions has been described in Unit 4 and Unit 5 respectively. The derivation of Michaelis-Menten equation has been described in the Unit 4. Unit 6 is mainly concerned with the inhibition of single substrate reactions obeying Michaelis Menten kinetics.

Block-3.pdf

The mechanism and regulation of enzyme activity has been addressed in the Block 3. Mechanisms important in controlling enzyme activity have been explained with relevant examples (Unit 7). Several different mechanisms and their classification enable the learner to understand the regulation of metabolic pathways at several levels of organization of life forms (Units 8 and 9).

Block-4.pdf

Since there has been a remarkable increase in the past few decades in the enzyme industry, in the last block, (Block 4) we have allowed the distance learners to keep up with the latest developments and applications of enzymes (Unit 11). The role of coenzymes (Unit 10) has also been described. The last unit (Unit 12) reflects the latest advances in enzyme technology.

If you have any query about this course, please feel free to Contact:

Dr. Parvesh Bubber

Course Coordinator, Enzymes (BBCCT-107 & BBCCL-108)

Associate Professor in Biochemistry

Block-D, School of Sciences, Biochemistry Discipline

Email- parvesh@ignou.ac.in