Enzymes in Nature

Enzymes are one of the most interesting and important substances found in nature. Firts, it’s important to realize that enzymes are not living things. They are inanimate - like minerals. But unlike minerals, they are made by living cells. If we were to look inside a cell we would see many different activities going on. There would be some molecules joining together and others breaking apart. These activities keep the cell alive and enzymes make these activities possible. That’s why every cell of every living creature on Earth produces enzymes.

In a broad sense, there are two types of enzyme. Some that help join specific molecules together to form new molecules. Others that help break specific molecules apart into separate molecules. Enzymes play many important roles ouside the cell as well. One of the best examples of this is the digestive system. For instance, it is enzymes in your digestive system that break food down in your digestive system break food down into small molecules that can be absorbed by the body. Some enzymes in your digestive system break down starch, some proteins and others break down fats. Sayfanın Devamını Oku »