What does the "lock and key" model describe in enzyme activity?

The "lock and key" model is a well-established concept in biochemistry that describes how enzymes interact with specific substrates. In this model, the enzyme is compared to a lock, while the substrate is likened to the key. Just like a key fits into a specific lock, the substrate fits precisely into the active site of the enzyme, where the reaction takes place.

This model emphasizes the specificity of enzyme-substrate interactions, indicating that each enzyme is tailored to bind with a particular substrate due to its unique shape and chemical properties. The shape of the active site is complementary to the shape of the substrate, facilitating a perfect fit that allows the enzyme to catalyze the reaction efficiently.

This concept underscores the importance of the structural compatibility between enzymes and substrates in biochemical reactions, showcasing how enzymes are designed to recognize and interact with specific molecules within the cellular environment.