Key Area 6
(b) Control of metabolic pathways
In this second part of Key Area 6, we will take a look at how metabolic pathways can be controlled. This often involves the action of enzymes - which we will also look at in more detail. The role of inhibitors and feedback inhibition will also be explored. Start with "Something to Read" and then cover at least one other activity before returning to class.
Something to Read...
Open the document below and read the mandatory course notes provided by SQA for this Key Area. You may wish to use your home learning time to copy these notes into a jotter or choose a digital presentation format that suits your learning style.
Something to Watch...
I have chosen a couple of things to watch before class. This is a larger key area. I would recommended the Khan Academy video for an introduction to Induced Fit of Enzyme Activity.
The second link is for a McGraw-Hill animation on feedback inhibition.
Something to look at...
Here are a series of diagrams that are useful to help get your head around some key concepts that are covered in your SQA notes.
Diagram 1: Concept of activation energy. This is the energy required for a reaction to proceed beyond the transition state. An enzyme lowers the energy required for this to happen.
Diagram 2: The induced fit model of enzyme activity.
Diagram 3: Competitive inhibition of enzymes
Diagram 4: Non-competitive inhibition of enzymes
Diagram 5: Feedback inhibition of enzymes