What occurs when a substrate reacts with an enzyme?

When a substrate reacts with an enzyme, the process involves a conformational change in the enzyme, which is key to how enzymes function effectively. Enzymes are highly specific proteins that bind to substrates at their active sites. When a substrate enters the active site, the enzyme undergoes a conformational change, which means it adjusts its shape slightly to better fit the substrate. This change enhances the interaction, facilitating the chemical reaction that turns the substrate into the product.

This conformational change is crucial because it lowers the activation energy required for the reaction to occur, allowing the reaction to proceed more efficiently. The enzyme then helps transform the substrate into products and can be reused for another reaction without being permanently altered itself.