BIO NMDCAT Inhibitors
nmdcat.online July 13, 2026

6. During metabolism, heavy metal ions commonly reduce enzyme activity by

A. Binding to sulfhydryl groups and altering enzyme structure
✓
B. Increasing substrate concentration
C. Acting as enzyme cofactors
D. Converting enzymes into products

📝 Explanation

Heavy metals such as mercury and lead bind to sulfhydryl (-SH) groups, distorting enzyme structure and causing irreversible inhibition. The remaining options are incorrect mechanisms. Concept tested: Heavy metal inhibition.

📖 Additional Information

  • Binding to sulfhydryl groups and altering enzyme structure
  • Increasing substrate concentration
  • Acting as enzyme cofactors
  • Converting enzymes into products

Heavy metals such as mercury and lead bind to sulfhydryl (-SH) groups, distorting enzyme structure and causing irreversible inhibition. The remaining options are incorrect mechanisms. Concept tested: Heavy metal inhibition.

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