What are the molecules that are bound and acted upon by enzymes called?

The molecules that are bound and acted upon by enzymes are referred to as substrates. Enzymes are biological catalysts that facilitate chemical reactions by binding to specific substrates, forming an enzyme-substrate complex. This interaction lowers the activation energy required for the reaction to occur, ultimately leading to the conversion of substrates into products.

This term accurately captures the relationship between enzymes and the molecules they interact with. Substrates are crucial for enzymatic reactions, as they provide the necessary components for the enzyme to effectively carry out its function. Once the enzyme has acted on the substrates, they are transformed into products, which can then be released from the enzyme. Understanding this fundamental concept is essential for studying biochemical processes, metabolism, and how various factors influence enzyme activity.