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Multiple Choice
Which of the following methods can overcome competitive inhibition in an enzyme-catalyzed reaction?
A
Increasing substrate concentration
B
Lowering the temperature
C
Adding a non-competitive inhibitor
D
Decreasing enzyme concentration
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of competitive inhibition: In competitive inhibition, an inhibitor competes with the substrate for binding to the active site of the enzyme. This means that the inhibitor and substrate are vying for the same spot on the enzyme.
Consider the effect of increasing substrate concentration: By increasing the concentration of the substrate, you can outcompete the inhibitor for the active site. This is because a higher concentration of substrate increases the likelihood that the substrate will bind to the enzyme instead of the inhibitor.
Evaluate the impact of lowering the temperature: Lowering the temperature generally decreases the rate of enzyme-catalyzed reactions, which would not help overcome competitive inhibition. It might slow down the reaction further.
Analyze the addition of a non-competitive inhibitor: A non-competitive inhibitor binds to a different site on the enzyme, not the active site, and affects the enzyme's activity regardless of substrate concentration. Adding a non-competitive inhibitor would not overcome competitive inhibition; it would further inhibit the enzyme's activity.
Consider the effect of decreasing enzyme concentration: Decreasing enzyme concentration would reduce the overall rate of reaction, making it harder for the substrate to compete with the inhibitor. This would not help overcome competitive inhibition.