Why is the tertiary structure of maltase essential to its function?

A good starting point in this question is identifying what is meant by the ‘tertiary structure’ of a protein, which is the folding of the protein into its 3D structure/shape. Relate this ten to maltase – an enzyme (contains an active site). You can therefore say that the tertiary structure of maltase determines the shape of its active site, which is complementary in shape to a specific substrate, in this case – maltose. To get the final mark, you could think – what would happen if the active site changes its shape? - the substrate no longer fits into its active site and the enzyme-substrate complex can no longer form.

Answered by Lorenz Dale D. Biology tutor

6885 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Cellular structure of the brain


Describe the structure of the human gas exchange system and explain how we breath in and out.


Explain the role of the diaphragm when breathing in and out


Describe the part played by each of the organelles involved in the production and secretion of the enzymes.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences