Q1.. How does an enzyme assay work? Explain its different types.
- Enzyme assays measure reaction rate by tracking substrate consumption or product formation.
- Optimal conditions (pH, temperature, substrate concentration) are crucial for accurate assays.
- Assays convert enzyme activity into a detectable signal (e.g., light absorption, fluorescence).
- Continuous (kinetic) assays monitor reaction progress in real-time, often spectrophotometrically.
Answer: An enzyme assay is a laboratory method used to measure the rate of enzyme reactions, thereby quantifying the amount of enzyme present or its catalytic efficiency. The fundamental principle involves monitoring either the rate at which a substrate is consumed or the rate at which a product is formed under carefully controlled conditions. This rate is directly proportional to the enzyme's activity. For an enzyme assay to work effectively, optimal conditions such as pH, temperature, and substrate ...