Several factors influence the catalytic activity of lactase, including:
- pH Levels: Lactase has an optimal pH range (usually around pH 6.0-7.0). Deviations from this range can denature the enzyme, reducing its activity. - Temperature: The enzyme exhibits maximum activity at an optimal temperature (typically around 37°C for human lactase). Higher or lower temperatures can lead to denaturation or reduced catalytic efficiency. - Substrate Concentration: The rate of reaction increases with substrate concentration up to a point, beyond which the enzyme becomes saturated, and the rate plateaus.
