Substrate interference occurs when an interfering substrate either binds to the active site of the catalyst or affects the reaction environment in a way that diminishes the catalyst's effectiveness. This can happen through:
Competitive inhibition where the interfering substrate competes with the primary substrate for the same active site. Non-competitive inhibition where the interfering substrate binds to a different site on the catalyst, altering its conformation and thereby its activity. Changes in the reaction environment such as pH, temperature, or the presence of other chemicals that affect the catalyst's performance.