What is the active site of an enzyme?

The active site of an enzyme is specifically defined as the region where substrates bind. This site is often a groove or pocket within the enzyme's three-dimensional structure, and it has a unique shape that is complementary to the shape of the substrate molecules. When substrates enter the active site, they undergo a chemical reaction facilitated by the enzyme, leading to the formation of products.

The importance of this binding is that it lowers the activation energy needed for the reaction to proceed, making the enzymatic reaction more efficient. The precise fit between the enzyme's active site and the substrate is often compared to a lock and key, which highlights how specificity is key in enzyme function. The active site's structure and the interactions it engages in are crucial for catalyzing biochemical reactions in living organisms.