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Chapter 17: Problem 8

(Integrates with Chapter \(15 .\) ) Metabolic regulation is achieved via regulating enzyme activity in three prominent ways: allosteric regulation, covalent modification, and enzyme synthesis and degradation. Which of these three modes of regulation is likely to be the quickest; which the slowest? For each of these general enzyme regulatory mechanisms, cite conditions in which cells might employ that mode in preference to either of the other two.

Short Answer

Expert verified
In terms of speed, allosteric regulation will be the quickest mechanism for regulating enzyme activity and the slowest will be enzyme synthesis and degradation. Allosteric mechanism might be preferred when instant responses are needed. Covalent modification is typically employed when a more durable change in enzyme activity is needed, while enzyme synthesis and degradation might be preferred for long term effects.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding the Mechanisms

First, it will be crucial to understand how each mechanism works. 1. Allosteric regulation: This mechanism is about changing the enzyme's shape and effectiveness by binding a molecule to the enzyme at a location other than the active site.2. Covalent modification: This mechanism is about adding or removing chemical groups to or from the enzyme that consequently alters the enzyme's activity.3. Enzyme synthesis and degradation: This is related to the synthesis (creation) or degradation (breakdown) of proteins that affects the amount of enzyme in the cell.
02

Analyze the Speed of Each Mechanism

Next, consider the speed with which each mechanism can regulate enzyme activity.1. Allosteric regulation is instantaneous as it only involves binding or unbinding a molecule to the enzyme. 2. Covalent modification takes more time than allosteric regulation as it involves making or breaking covalent bonds to modify the enzyme. 3. Enzyme synthesis and degradation is the slowest. The process of creating or breaking down proteins takes longer due to the complexity of these processes.
03

Understanding Preferred Conditions for Each Mechanism

Finally, consider in what conditions a cell might prefer each of these mechanisms.1. Allosteric regulation is usually preferred when the cell needs to respond to changes instantly, for example, to quickly increase or decrease metabolic pathway fluency. 2. Covalent modification is typically employed when there's a need for a more durable change in enzyme activity, such as during cellular growth and differentiation phases.3. Enzyme synthesis and degradation is most likely preferred when a long term effect is needed, such as adapting to a new environment or prolonged stress.

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