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

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

active site

Its unusually exposed active site also provides space for the enzyme to interact with polymer chains.

From Science Daily ● Oct. 16, 2026

Scientists have nicknamed it the "Pac-Man enzyme" because its molecular structure features a remarkably wide opening where chemical reactions take place, known as the active site.

From Science Daily ● Oct. 16, 2026

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

The active site is where the “action” happens.

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

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