What determines the specific function of each enzyme?

The specific function of each enzyme is determined by its unique shape and how it interacts with its substrates. Enzymes are highly specialized proteins that catalyze biochemical reactions by binding to specific molecules known as substrates. The active site of the enzyme, which is the region where the substrate binds, has a particular shape that allows the enzyme to recognize and bind only to certain substrates, ensuring that the enzyme catalyzes a specific reaction.

The shape of the enzyme is influenced by its amino acid sequence and structure, which determines how it folds and the three-dimensional configuration it adopts. This specificity is crucial for enzyme function, as enzymes need to maintain precise interactions with their substrates to facilitate the chemical reactions they catalyze effectively. Therefore, the enzyme's shape directly dictates its ability to perform its role in metabolic processes, making it the key determinant of its function.