Question map
The enzymes which catalyze the same reaction but have different amino acid compositions are commonly referred as :
Explanation
Isoenzymes, also known as isozymes, are defined as different molecular forms of an enzyme that catalyze the same chemical reaction but differ in their primary structure, specifically their amino acid sequence [1]. These variations often arise from genetically determined differences, such as being encoded by different gene loci or resulting from alternative splicing [1]. Despite performing the same catalytic function, isoenzymes exhibit distinct physical and chemical properties, including different kinetic parameters (Km and Vmax), regulatory properties, and electrophoretic mobilities [2]. A classic example is Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH), which exists in five isomeric forms with varying subunit compositions (H and M types) tailored for specific tissues like the heart or liver [2]. In contrast, isotopes refer to atomic variants, isomers to molecules with the same formula but different structures, and coenzymes to non-protein organic molecules that assist enzymes.
Sources
- [1] https://iubmb.qmul.ac.uk/misc/isoen.html
- [2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557536/