Substrate Concentration Formula:
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Definition: This calculator determines the substrate concentration needed to achieve a specific reaction rate in enzyme-catalyzed reactions following Michaelis-Menten kinetics.
Purpose: It helps biochemists and researchers understand enzyme kinetics and determine substrate requirements for desired reaction rates.
The calculator uses the Michaelis-Menten equation rearranged to solve for substrate concentration:
Where:
Explanation: The equation relates the substrate concentration to the reaction rate in enzyme-catalyzed reactions, where \( K_M \) represents the substrate concentration at half of \( V_{max} \).
Details: Understanding substrate concentration helps in enzyme characterization, drug development, and optimizing biochemical reactions in research and industrial applications.
Tips: Enter the Michaelis constant (\( K_M \)), initial reaction rate (\( V_0 \)), and maximum rate (\( V_{max} \)). All values must be > 0 and \( V_{max} \) must be greater than \( V_0 \).
Q1: What is the Michaelis constant (KM)?
A: The substrate concentration at which the reaction rate is half of \( V_{max} \). It indicates enzyme-substrate affinity.
Q2: How do I determine Vmax experimentally?
A: Measure reaction rates at increasing substrate concentrations until the rate plateaus - this plateau is \( V_{max} \).
Q3: What units should I use?
A: Consistent units are required (shown in calculator). SI units (mol/m³) are recommended.
Q4: What if V0 approaches Vmax?
A: The equation becomes unstable as \( V_0 \) nears \( V_{max} \). The calculator will show an error if \( V_0 \geq V_{max} \).
Q5: Can this be used for inhibitor studies?
A: Yes, but \( K_M \) and \( V_{max} \) values must be determined under the same inhibitor conditions.