SIMILARITIES AND DIFFERENCES BETWEEN BIOLOGICAL CATALYSTS AND NON-BIOLOGICAL (INORGANIC) CATALYSTS

This article discusses the essence, structure, properties, and biological significance of enzymes as biological catalysts. Enzymes are high-molecular protein-based biological catalysts that accelerate all biochemical reactions in living organisms. The article analyzes the concepts of enzymes and their historical development, as well as their main functions in living cells. In addition, the role of enzymes in metabolic processes and examples of diseases related to enzyme deficiency or excessive activity are presented. A comparative analysis of biological and inorganic catalysts is provided in a table, highlighting their chemical nature, working conditions, specificity, reaction rate enhancement, and other important aspects. The high specificity, efficiency under mild conditions, and catalytic effectiveness of enzymes emphasize their essential role in biological systems. The article also discusses the prospects of enzyme applications in medicine, biochemistry, pharmaceuticals, and industry.