Enzyme Commission number
Enzyme Commission number
The Enzyme Commission number (pronounced /ˈɛnzaɪm kəˈmɪʃən ˈnʌmbər/) is a unique identifier for a specific Enzyme that is used in the field of Biochemistry. The system is maintained by the International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (IUBMB).
Etymology
The term "Enzyme Commission" is derived from the international group that created the system, the Enzyme Commission of the IUBMB. The term "number" refers to the unique identifier assigned to each enzyme.
Structure
The Enzyme Commission number is a hierarchical numerical classification scheme for enzymes, based on the chemical reactions they catalyze. Each enzyme is described by a sequence of four numbers preceded by "EC". The four numbers, separated by periods, represent a multi-level classification of the enzymatic reaction.
Related Terms
- Enzyme: A protein that acts as a biological catalyst to speed up a chemical reaction.
- Biochemistry: The study of chemical processes within and relating to living organisms.
- International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (IUBMB): An international non-governmental organization devoted to promoting research and education in biochemistry and molecular biology.
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