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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements correctly describes the difference between competitive inhibition and allosteric inhibition in the context of enzyme activity?
A
Competitive inhibition requires a cofactor, while allosteric inhibition does not.
B
Competitive inhibition is irreversible, whereas allosteric inhibition is reversible.
C
Competitive inhibition involves the inhibitor binding to the active site, whereas allosteric inhibition involves the inhibitor binding to a different site on the enzyme.
D
Competitive inhibition increases the maximum reaction rate, while allosteric inhibition decreases it.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of enzyme inhibition: Enzyme inhibitors are molecules that bind to enzymes and decrease their activity. There are different types of inhibition, including competitive and allosteric inhibition.
Define competitive inhibition: In competitive inhibition, the inhibitor molecule resembles the substrate and competes for binding to the enzyme's active site. This type of inhibition can be overcome by increasing the concentration of the substrate.
Define allosteric inhibition: Allosteric inhibition occurs when an inhibitor binds to a site other than the active site on the enzyme, known as the allosteric site. This binding changes the enzyme's shape and reduces its activity.
Compare the binding sites: In competitive inhibition, the inhibitor binds directly to the active site, preventing the substrate from binding. In allosteric inhibition, the inhibitor binds to a different site, causing a conformational change that affects the active site.
Evaluate the statements: The correct statement is that competitive inhibition involves the inhibitor binding to the active site, whereas allosteric inhibition involves the inhibitor binding to a different site on the enzyme. This distinction is crucial for understanding how each type of inhibition affects enzyme activity.