Veterinary Technician Practice Exam

Enzymes are primarily what type of molecules?

1. Carbohydrates

2. Vitamins

3. Proteins

4. Fats

The correct answer is: Proteins

Enzymes are primarily proteins, which are macromolecules composed of long chains of amino acids. They function as biological catalysts, speeding up chemical reactions in the body by lowering the activation energy required for those reactions to occur. The specific sequence and arrangement of amino acids in an enzyme determine its unique three-dimensional shape, which is crucial for its ability to bind to substrates and facilitate reactions. This protein nature of enzymes is critical to their functionality. They are involved in various physiological processes, including digestion, metabolism, and DNA replication, making them essential for life. Other types of biomolecules, such as carbohydrates, vitamins, and fats, serve different functions in the body but do not fulfill the role of catalysts in biochemical reactions like proteins do. Thus, understanding that enzymes are proteins helps clarify their importance in biological systems and their designation as catalysts.