What are enzymes? Give 3 examples of it.

Enzymes are biological molecules that act as catalysts in living organisms, facilitating and speeding up various biochemical reactions without being consumed or permanently altered in the process. They play a crucial role in maintaining the metabolic processes necessary for life. Enzymes are typically proteins, although some RNA molecules, known as ribozymes, can also exhibit catalytic activity.

Here are three examples of enzymes and their respective functions:

Lactase: Lactase is an enzyme found in the small intestine of mammals, including humans. It is responsible for breaking down lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products, into its constituent components, glucose and galactose. People who are lactose intolerant lack sufficient lactase activity, leading to digestive discomfort when consuming dairy products.

Amylase: Amylase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the digestion of carbohydrates. It is found in saliva (salivary amylase) and pancreatic secretions (pancreatic amylase). Amylase catalyzes the hydrolysis of starch and glycogen into simpler sugars like maltose and glucose, which can be absorbed into the bloodstream and used for energy.

Catalase: Catalase is an enzyme found in cells, particularly in peroxisomes, which are organelles involved in various metabolic reactions. Catalase serves to break down hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), a harmful byproduct of various metabolic processes, into water and oxygen. This reaction is essential for protecting cells from oxidative damage caused by the buildup of hydrogen peroxide.

These examples illustrate the diverse roles that enzymes play in biological systems, ranging from aiding in digestion to protecting cells from harmful substances. Enzymes are essential for the proper functioning of organisms and are involved in countless biochemical reactions in living systems.