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1 September 2013 Seeing & Feeling How Enzymes Work using Tangible Models
Kwok-Chi (Victor) Lau
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Abstract

This article presents a tangible model used to help students tackle some misconceptions about enzyme actions, particularly the induced-fit model, enzymesubstrate complementarity, and enzyme inhibition. The model can simulate how substrates induce a change in the shape of the active site and the role of attraction force during enzyme—substrate binding. It can also be used to show how noncompetitive inhibitors work differently from competitive inhibitors. In addition, the model allows students to visualize the random collisions between enzymes and substrates. For kinesthetic learners, this tangible model is likely to foster better comprehension of the unobservable enzyme concepts than computer animations. Uses of the model in the classroom are suggested. The model is readily made using simple materials that school teachers can easily acquire, and detailed production tips are provided.

©2013 by National Association of Biology Teachers. All rights reserved. Request permission to photocopy or reproduce article content at the University of California Press's Rights and Permissions Web site at www.ucpressjournals.com/reprintinfo.asp.
Kwok-Chi (Victor) Lau "Seeing & Feeling How Enzymes Work using Tangible Models," The American Biology Teacher 75(7), 499-501, (1 September 2013). https://doi.org/10.1525/abt.2013.75.7.10
Published: 1 September 2013
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KEYWORDS
biology teaching
enzymes
induced-fit model
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