Active sites facilitate catalysis through several mechanisms:
Proximity and Orientation: The active site brings substrate molecules into close proximity and in the correct orientation, reducing the activation energy required for the reaction. Microenvironment: The unique environment within the active site can stabilize the transition state and provide an optimal pH and polarity for the reaction. Induced Fit: Upon substrate binding, the enzyme may undergo a conformational change that enhances its catalytic activity, a phenomenon known as the induced fit model.
