Applications of Enzymes

Enzymes are modified protein molecules that catalyze biological reactions. They facilitate metabolic reactions, favouring the conversion of reactants into products by providing an active site. One enzyme generally only binds with one substrate and after the completion of the reaction, the binding is removed such that the enzyme can catalyze other substrates. This makes enzymes reusable.

More than 1300 types of enzymes have been found in the human body which catalyze different metabolic reactions. In the absence of an enzyme, vital processes like DNA formation, replication, and DNA translation will not function resulting in the death of the organism. In this article, we will discuss the major applications of enzymes in detail.

Types of Enzymes

Based on the type of substrate and the function, enzymes are divided into seven broad categories.

Ligases

These are enzymes that facilitate the joining of two substrates together. For example, DNA ligase helps in joining the two strands of DNA to form a double-stranded DNA molecule.

Oxidoreductase

These enzymes catalyze the oxidation and reduction reactions involving the transfer of electrons. Example alcohol dehydrogenase.

Lyase

These are enzymes involved in the formation of double bonds to synthesize large molecules by adding functional groups to the substrate. Example pectin lyase.

Hydrolase

These are mainly digestive enzymes involved in breaking down bonds to form simple molecules. For example, pepsin breaks the peptide bonds in protein molecules.

Isomerase

These enzymes facilitate the rearrangement of bonds within a molecule that changes the shape of the molecule although the molecular formula remains the same. Example: Glucose isomerase.

Transferase

These are enzymes that transfer the functional group from one substrate to another. For example alanine aminotransferase.

Translocases

Certain enzymes help in the movement of molecules from one region to another within the body, particularly across the cell membrane. These enzymes mostly assist in moving proteins that are hydrophilic and cannot pass through the hydrophobic lipid bilayer. Example -Ornithine translocase.

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Functions of enzymes

Naturally occurring enzymes are found inside living organisms including microbes, plants, and animals.

The most vital function of enzymes in the body is to help in the synthesis of Deoxyribonucleic acid(DNA) which contains genetic information.
Enzymes also help in the transcription and translation of DNA so that the desired proteins can be obtained.
Enzymes help in the breakdown of complex nutrients into simpler glucose molecules which can undergo respiration to produce Adenosine triphosphate(ATP) molecules.
Enzymes are involved in the synthesis of large molecules like proteins and lipids which are a part of the structural framework of the body.
Enzymes catalyze processes like respiration and photosynthesis without which plants and animals cannot generate energy for their activity.
Enzymes help in the removal of toxic substances from the body and assist in the purification of blood and food particles in the liver and kidneys.

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Application of enzymes

Enzymes are not only helpful inside the human body but they can be extracted or synthesized in labs for various applications in different sectors. Let us study the different sectors where the enzymes are used along with their applications and examples.

Sector	Application	Example
Biofuels	Fatty acid methyl esters can be produced from enzymes that can be used as biofuels to generate energy. These enzymes also break down lignocellulosic material which results in the production of bioethanol.	Cellulase, Xylanase, and Lipase.
Food processing	Artificial flavours, corn syrup rich in fructose, breakdown of starch to release glucose, production of prebiotics to restore healthy gut microbiota, and preservation of fruit juices are all applications of enzymes.	Amylase, Glucose isomerase, Pectinase, and Trypsin.
Detergent production	Enzymes facilitate the removal of dark stains, dyes, oils, and fats from clothes without damaging the fabric. Enzyme-based detergent does not affect the colour of the cloth.	Lipase, protease, Cellulase, and Amylase.
Pharmaceutical industry	Active ingredients of medicines require intermediates that are obtained from several plant-based enzymes.	Lipase, Penicillin acylase, Nitrile hydratase, Transaminase, and Monoamine oxidase.
Paper industry	Strong quality fibres are obtained from plant enzymes which improve fibre strength, enzymes improve bleaching and paper production.	Cellulase, Xylanase, Lipase..

Frequently Asked Questions on Applications of Enzymes

Enzymes are used in various industries for processes like food production, medicine, biotechnology, and environmental management. They help in breaking down substances, speeding up reactions, and improving product quality.

Food Industry: Enzymes are used to make cheese, bread, and beer by breaking down ingredients.
Medical Field: Enzymes are used in diagnostic tests and to treat diseases like diabetes.
Biotechnology: Enzymes help in genetic engineering and the production of biofuels.
Environmental Management: Enzymes are used to clean up oil spills and manage waste.

Five types of enzymes and their applications are:

Amylases: Break down starch into sugars in the food industry.
Proteases: Help in digesting proteins and are used in laundry detergents.
Lipases: Break down fats and oils in food processing and biofuel production.
Cellulases:Break down cellulose in plant materials for biofuel and paper industries.
Lactases: Convert lactose into glucose and galactose in dairy products for lactose-intolerant individuals.

Speed Up Reactions: Enzymes accelerate biochemical reactions.
Specificity: Enzymes are specific to substrates, ensuring precise reactions.
Regulation: Enzymes help control metabolic pathways.
Energy Efficiency: Enzymes lower the activation energy for reactions.
Industrial Applications: Enzymes are essential for processes in food, medicine, and environmental cleanup.

Applications of Enzymes