What is the role of catalysts in biochemical reactions?

Catalysts play a crucial role in biochemical reactions by lowering the activation energy needed for the reaction to proceed. Activation energy is the minimum amount of energy required for a reaction to occur, and by reducing this threshold, catalysts allow reactions to happen more easily and at a faster rate, without being consumed in the process. This is particularly important in biological systems where reactions often need to occur at relatively low temperatures and in a timely manner to sustain life.

By facilitating the reaction without altering the overall chemical composition of the substrate, catalysts maintain the integrity of the substrates and products involved. They do not change the substrates into products directly but rather provide an environment where the reaction can happen more efficiently. This is why catalysts are essential in many metabolic pathways within organisms, as they enable the necessary reactions to occur under physiological conditions.