Question

question 2
10 points
would a mutation in an enzyme that changes the shape of its active site change the function of the enzyme?
a no, because the enzyme would probably bind to the substrate anyway.
b no, because another enzyme would make up for it.
c no, because the shape of the active site has no effect on its activity.
d yes, because the active sites of all the enzymes have to match in order to work.
e yes, because the substrate has to fit specifically into the active site to undergo the reaction.

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option:

• Option A: Enzymes bind to substrates via specific active - site - substrate fit. A changed active - site shape would likely prevent binding, so this is wrong.
• Option B: Enzymes are specific to their reactions. Another enzyme can't "make up" for a mutated enzyme's function as they have different roles, so this is wrong.
• Option C: The shape of the active site is crucial for enzyme activity (lock - and - key or induced - fit model), so this is wrong.
• Option D: Enzymes don't need to have matching active sites with other enzymes. Each enzyme has a unique active site for its specific substrate, so this is wrong.
• Option E: Enzymes work by the substrate fitting specifically into the active site (lock - and - key/induced - fit). A mutation changing the active - site shape would prevent the substrate from fitting, thus changing the enzyme's function. This is correct.

Answer:

E. Yes, because the substrate has to fit specifically into the active site to undergo the reaction.