Each enzyme is specific to a particular reaction or group of similar reactions. Many require the association of certain nonprotein cofactors in order to function. Other molecules may compete for the active site, causing inhibition of the enzyme or even irreversible destruction of its catalytic properties.
Enzyme production is governed by a cell's genes.
Such changes may themselves be under the control of hormones or the nervous system. See also enzyme kinetics . The names of most individual enzymes also end in - ase , which is added to the names of the substrates on which they act. A Dictionary of Science, Oxford University Press 2. catalyst A Dictionary of Science, Oxford University Press 3. All rights reserved.