Question

Depending on whether the inhibitor bonds briefly or permanently with the enzyme, what is the effect on enzyme activity?

1) The enzyme activity is temporarily inhibited
2) The enzyme activity is permanently inhibited
3) The enzyme activity is not affected

Answer 1

The effect on enzyme activity depends on the binding of the inhibitor; temporary inhibition occurs with non-covalent, brief binding, while permanent inhibition occurs with covalent, permanent binding.

Step-by-step explanation:

When an inhibitor binds to an enzyme, the effect on enzyme activity depends on whether the binding is reversible or irreversible. If the inhibitor binds briefly and non-covalently to the enzyme, it results in a temporary inhibition of the enzyme activity. This can occur in various forms, such as competitive, noncompetitive, or uncompetitive inhibition. However, if the inhibitor forms a permanent covalent bond at the active site of the enzyme, it causes irreversible inhibition, meaning the enzyme is permanently inactivated and unable to catalyze reactions. Irreversible inhibitors often act by modifying key amino acid residues needed for enzymatic activity.