How Do Enzymes Work in the Body?

Significance

Without enzymes, your body would be unable to process all the needed chemical reactions that allow for normal functioning. Enzymes are microscopic protein organisms that initiate every chemical process within the body. They exist within every cell and fluid--from muscles and bones to neurons and blood. Each type of individual cell synthesizes its own enzymes to handle whatever fluid exchanges are necessary to sustain the cell.

Enzymes work on specific substances, or substrates contained within each cell, while each substrate-enzyme combination carries out a specific function. Enzymes are considered globular organisms that contain specific surface areas responsible for binding with its assigned substrate. Once the two materials combine, a chemical reaction takes place that creates a new material. This new material is then utilized by the cell for a specific function. Each cell is capable of replenishing its enzyme supplies on a continual basis.

Function

Enzymes can appear individually, or in chains depending on the number of functions to be carried out. These organisms are contained within cell membranes, cytoplasm and organelles. Some are responsible for balanced neurotransmitter exchanges within the brain, while others facilitate the respiratory processes within cells. A number of enzymes play a part in hormonal secretions like insulin and cortisone. They're also responsible for transmitting waste, and free radical substances out of the cells and into the bloodstream.

One particular cellular function where enzymes play a major role is that of metabolizing ATP. ATP, or adenosine triphosphate, is the energy molecule needed by every cell in the body. ATP is formed and metabolized by enzymatic processes that take place within each cell. ATPase is the enzyme responsible for breaking down ATP. It's specifically designed to bind with ATP molecules, so cells can make use of the nutrients from the foods that you eat.

Conditions

Environmental conditions within the body play a role in how effectively enzyme processes are carried out. Acid levels vary according to bodily function, with higher levels needed inside cells to aid in metabolism. Organ functions such as digestion require high acid levels throughout, whereas low levels are needed in the duodenum area. Good nutrition and exercise provide the needed environmental conditions for balanced enzyme function.

Body temperature also has an effect on the rate of enzyme production. The heat generated by muscles during exercise is an example of how increased temperature triggers faster metabolism processes within muscle tissue. In cases of illness, disease or injury, inflammation and fever are indicators of increased enzyme activity as the body works to repair itself.

Resources

• Enzymes - Frequently Asked Questions
• Types of Enzymes