The Induced-fit Model

• What does the lock and key model suggest?

  A substrate will only fit the active site of one particular enzyme, just as a key only fits one specific lock.
• What does the induced-fit model suggest?

  The enzyme has a general shape but is flexible and can mould itself around the substrate.
• How does an enzyme catalyse a reaction in the induced-fit model?

  As the enzyme changes shape to fit the substrate, it puts a strain on it which distorts bonds in the substrate and lowers the activation energy needed to break them.
• What happens if an enzymes environment changes?

  It changes its shape.
• What happens to the enzyme after the substrate is released in the induced-fit model?

  It resumes its original shape ready to accept another substrate.