You are a researcher trying to design an enzyme inhibitor for a particular enzyme. Which molecule should your inhibitor most closely resemble for the most effective inhibition to take place?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The transition state intermediate is a high-energy state that only exists for a brief moment during the enzyme-substrate interaction. It is the state in which the substrate is the most reactive and closest to being converted into the product. Therefore, designing an inhibitor molecule that closely resembles the transition state intermediate can effectively bind to the active site of the enzyme and prevent substrate binding and reaction. This type of inhibitor is called a transition state analog.

You Are a Researcher Trying to Design an Enzyme Inhibitor