Michaelis Constant Formula:
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The Michaelis Constant (KM) for competitive inhibition represents the substrate concentration at which the reaction rate is half of the maximum rate in the presence of a competitive inhibitor. It provides insight into enzyme-substrate affinity under inhibitory conditions.
The calculator uses the Michaelis Constant formula for competitive inhibition:
Where:
Explanation: The formula accounts for the effect of competitive inhibitors on the apparent Michaelis constant, where inhibitors compete with substrates for the enzyme's active site.
Details: Calculating KM under competitive inhibition conditions is crucial for understanding enzyme kinetics, designing enzyme inhibitors for therapeutic purposes, and studying metabolic pathways regulation.
Tips: Enter all values in appropriate units. All concentrations must be positive values, and the dissociation constant must be greater than zero for valid results.
Q1: What is competitive inhibition?
A: Competitive inhibition occurs when an inhibitor molecule competes with the substrate for binding to the enzyme's active site, increasing the apparent KM value.
Q2: How does competitive inhibition affect KM?
A: Competitive inhibition increases the apparent Michaelis constant (KM), meaning more substrate is needed to achieve half-maximal velocity compared to uninhibited reactions.
Q3: What are typical values for Michaelis constant?
A: KM values vary widely depending on the enzyme and substrate, typically ranging from 10⁻⁶ to 10⁻² mol/m³, reflecting the enzyme's affinity for its substrate.
Q4: How is Ki related to inhibitor potency?
A: The inhibition constant (Ki) represents the concentration of inhibitor needed to reduce enzyme activity by half. Lower Ki values indicate more potent inhibitors.
Q5: Can this calculator be used for non-competitive inhibition?
A: No, this specific formula is designed for competitive inhibition. Different equations are used for non-competitive and uncompetitive inhibition types.