Biology Useful Enzymes

Topic 4 Useful Enzymes

In lab 4 you are exploring two enzymes, catalase that breaks down hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen, and amylase that aids in starch digestion. These are two examples of the many enzymes found inside our bodies.

Enzymes are also used in many of the products we use! Check your cleaning supplies at home, do any of them list enzymes on the ingredient list? If so, does it say which type of enzyme? Any other products you use contain enzymes? What type of enzymes are used in industry? Which enzymes are found in the food we eat?

After doing some research, choose and describe one enzyme that is used in cleaning products, other products, industrial procedures or that is found in food. Explain how this enzyme is used. What is the substrate in the chemical reaction? And what is the product(s)?

Remember that a chemical reaction converts one or more substrates to one or more products, and that most enzymes are substrate specific. When looking for enzymes remember that their names end with -ase!