Competitive inhibitor

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Competitive Inhibitor

A Competitive Inhibitor (pronunciation: /kəmˈpɛtɪtɪv ɪnˈhɪbɪtər/) is a type of enzyme inhibitor that binds to the active site of an enzyme, preventing the binding of the substrate and thus inhibiting the enzyme's function.

Etymology

The term "Competitive Inhibitor" is derived from the word 'compete', which refers to the inhibitor's ability to compete with the substrate for the same active site on the enzyme. The term 'inhibitor' is derived from the Latin word 'inhibitio', meaning 'a holding back'.

Mechanism of Action

A Competitive Inhibitor works by mimicking the substrate and competing for the active site on the enzyme. This competition reduces the rate at which the substrate can bind to the enzyme, thus slowing down the rate of the reaction. The presence of a Competitive Inhibitor can be overcome by increasing the concentration of the substrate.

Related Terms

  • Enzyme Inhibitor: A molecule that binds to an enzyme and decreases its activity.
  • Active Site: The region of an enzyme where substrate molecules bind and undergo a chemical reaction.
  • Substrate: A molecule upon which an enzyme acts.
  • Non-Competitive Inhibitor: An inhibitor that binds to an enzyme at a site other than the active site.

See Also

External links

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