Why is Partition Coefficient Important in Enzyme Catalysis?
In enzyme catalysis, the partition coefficient is crucial for the substrate and product's solubility and availability to the enzyme. Enzymes often reside in aqueous environments, so substrates with low partition coefficients (more hydrophilic) are more readily accessible to the enzyme. Conversely, substrates with high partition coefficients (more hydrophobic) may require solubilizing agents or modified reaction conditions to be efficiently catalyzed.
