Question #4dfad

1 Answer
Jul 9, 2015

Induced fit is the change in shape of the active site of an enzyme as it embraces its substrate.

Explanation:

The "lock and key" theory has been largely replaced by the "induced fit" model

It suggests that the active site does not at first fit the substrate perfectly.

Rather, as the substrate approaches, the active site changes its shape until the substrate is completely bound to it.

This change in shape of the active site is known as an induced fit.

In its new shape, the active site then catalyzes the reaction

For example, in the phosphorylation of glucose to glucose-6-phosphate, the glucose enters the active site of the enzyme.

enter image source here
(from http://molvisual.chem.ucsb.edu/)

The enzyme closes around the glucose, and the reaction takes place

enter image source here
(from http://molvisual.chem.ucsb.edu/)

When the products are released, the enzyme reverts to its original form.

Here's an animation of the induced fit process.


(from atwilkins5)