What type of proteins catalyze chemical reactions in biological processes?

Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions by lowering the activation energy required for those reactions to occur. They exhibit a high degree of specificity, meaning that each enzyme typically acts on a particular substrate or type of reaction, facilitating processes like digestion, metabolism, and DNA replication.

The unique structure of enzymes allows them to bind to substrate molecules, forming an enzyme-substrate complex. This interaction enables the conversion of substrates into products through various chemical reactions, without the enzyme being consumed in the process. The effectiveness of enzymes is influenced by factors such as temperature, pH, and substrate concentration.

Understanding enzymes is crucial in the field of biology and nutrition, as they play a fundamental role in numerous metabolic pathways and can impact overall health and well-being through their effects on digestion and nutrient absorption.