Enzyme-substrate complex

An enzyme-substrate complex is a temporary structure formed when an enzyme, which acts as a catalyst, binds to a specific molecule called a substrate. This interaction occurs at a special region of the enzyme known as the active site. When the enzyme attaches to the substrate, it helps facilitate a chemical reaction, often altering the substrate into a new product. This process is essential for various biological functions, as enzymes speed up reactions that are critical for life, such as digestion and metabolism. After the reaction, the enzyme is free to catalyze more reactions with other substrates.