Question

Enzymes are basically _________
A. Fat
B. Protein
C. Nucleic acid
D. All of the above

Answer 1

Its main function is to catalyze biochemical reactions and they also regulate biological processes. They are also made up of amino acids and are not used up in reactions.

Complete answer:
An enzyme is a biological catalyst and is a protein also. Generally all of the complex biochemical reactions that take place in animals, plants, and microorganisms are regulated by the enzymes. Enzymes are efficient and specific also—means, they accelerate the rate of one kind of chemical reaction of one type of compound and they do so in a far more efficient manner than human-made catalysts. They are controlled by activators and inhibitors that initiate or block reactions.

Role of enzymes in metabolism
Most of the enzymes help to break down large nutrient molecules, such as proteins and carbohydrates, into smaller molecules. This process happens during digestion of food in the stomach and intestines of animals. But there are other enzymes also which promote the formation of large molecules from the small and simple ones to produce cellular constituents. Enzymes are responsible for numerous other functions which include the storage and release of energy, the course of reproduction, the processes of respiration, and vision etc.

Additional information:
Enzymes were known for many years as ferments and this term was derived from the Latin word yeast. In 1878 the name enzyme was introduced from the Greek words meaning “in yeast,” Since the late 19th century it has been employed universally.

Hence, the correct answer is option (B) i.e., Protein.

Note: The main difference between enzyme and protein is that the enzyme is a biological catalyst whereas the protein can involve in the formation of structures, transportation, catalysis, and regulation of biological processes.