Question

Using your knowledge of protein structure, explain in 3-5 sentences the effect of exposing an enzyme to a pH outside its optimal range. Include the effect on both enzyme structure and function.andAntacids work by neutralizing acids, bring the pH of the stomach to a range of 6-7. What is the effect of taking an antacid on a person’s ability to digest proteins? Provide evidence from the graph in your answer.

Answer 1

Exposure of enzymes to non-optimal pH levels leads to denaturation, which impairs both enzyme structure and function. Antacids increase stomach pH, rendering pepsin less effective at digesting proteins.

Step-by-step explanation:

Effects of pH on Enzyme Activity

Enzymes are highly sensitive to pH levels, and when exposed to pH values outside their optimal range, their structure and function can be significantly affected. This is due to the breaking of hydrogen bonds and altering of ionizable side groups in the active site, which may lead to denaturation. Denaturation permanently affects the enzyme's ability to bind to substrates and catalyze reactions.

Effect of Antacids on Protein Digestion: Antacids increase the pH of the stomach to a less acidic range (pH 6-7), which can affect the activity of pepsin, the main enzyme in the stomach responsible for protein digestion. Pepsin has an optimal pH of 1.5, so by neutralizing stomach acid, antacids may reduce the enzyme's ability to effectively break down proteins into smaller molecules.