What term describes a molecule that has lost its shape and can no longer function?

What term describes a molecule that has lost its shape and can no longer function?

• A. Denatured enzyme
• B. Enzyme
• C. Immobilised enzyme
• D. Optimum

Answer: (A)

Denaturation is when a protein loses its 3D shape, usually due to factors like heat, extreme pH, or certain chemicals. An enzyme relies on its precise shape to form the active site that binds substrates. When the structure unfolds, the active site is altered and the molecule can no longer perform its catalytic function. So, a molecule that has lost its shape and can no longer function is described as denatured, and specifically a denatured enzyme when the affected molecule is an enzyme. The other terms describe a normally functioning enzyme, an enzyme fixed to a surface, or the conditions under which enzymes work best, none of which capture the loss of function due to shape change.

Denaturation is when a protein loses its 3D shape, usually due to factors like heat, extreme pH, or certain chemicals. An enzyme relies on its precise shape to form the active site that binds substrates. When the structure unfolds, the active site is altered and the molecule can no longer perform its catalytic function. So, a molecule that has lost its shape and can no longer function is described as denatured, and specifically a denatured enzyme when the affected molecule is an enzyme. The other terms describe a normally functioning enzyme, an enzyme fixed to a surface, or the conditions under which enzymes work best, none of which capture the loss of function due to shape change.