active site

American  

noun

Biochemistry.

1. the part of an enzyme that interacts with the substrate during catalysis.

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active site Scientific  

1. The part of an enzyme where the catalytic activity on the substrate takes place.

2. See more at enzyme

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active site Cultural  

1. The part of an enzyme or antibody where a chemical reaction occurs.

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Etymology

Origin of active site

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

ATP is the central energy carrier of the cell which supports numerous molecular processes, while, histidine is the most common amino acid found in the active site of enzymes, and maintains their acid-base chemistry.

From Science Daily • Apr. 18, 2024

"The turnover of hydrogen takes place at the active site, the H-cluster, inside the enzyme," explains Thomas Happe.

From Science Daily • Oct. 30, 2023

Forest Service stipulates that the observatory must remain an active site for research, astronomy or education — or be dismantled down to its last historic bolt.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 3, 2023

In some cases of enzyme inhibition, an inhibitor molecule is similar enough to a substrate that it can bind to the active site and simply block the substrate from binding.

From Textbooks • Apr. 25, 2013

Since enzymes are proteins, there is a unique combination of amino acid side chains within the active site.

From Textbooks • Apr. 25, 2013