Unprotected and Protected Enzyme - Assignment Example

Chemists have already successfully utilized solids such as synthetic polymers, porous glass, and even stainless steel to prevent such structural changes (Masterton and Hurley, 2005, p. 304). Despite the improved stability using these scaffolds, their effects on the enzyme’s catalytic ability should still be taken into consideration. If a part of the enzyme is attached to the stabilizing scaffold, then the surface area available for catalysis may be reduced.

If that is the case, it can be hypothesized that the stability compromises the function of the enzyme. This can be tested by comparing the catalytic abilities of equal amounts of immobilized and naked aspartame on the same amount of radio-labeled L-aspartate. This design will be tested at 25°C, 37°C, and 40°C. The concentration of the reactant will then be measured at different times. The measurements will then be plotted, and the resulting graph will be analyzed. If the graphs are significantly different between unprotected and protected enzymes. Decreasing the concentration of scaffold may be considered to try and balance the stability and function of the enzyme.