Michaelis-Menten Calculator
The Michaelis-Menten Calculator is a vital tool used in enzymology to predict the initial velocity of enzyme-catalyzed reactions. It calculates reaction rates based on substrate concentration, Vmax, and the Michaelis constant (Km) using the formula:
Formula of Michaelis-Menten Calculator
V = (Vmax * [S]) / (Km + [S])
Where:
- V is the initial velocity of the reaction.
- Vmax represents the maximum achievable reaction velocity.
- [S] stands for the substrate concentration.
- Km is the Michaelis constant, representing the substrate concentration at half of Vmax.
Understanding this formula helps in comprehending enzyme-substrate interactions’ kinetics.
General Terms Table / Conversion Calculator
Here’s a table offering general terms and conversions related to enzyme kinetics and concentrations:
| Term | Description |
|---|---|
| Enzyme Kinetics | Study of enzyme reactions and their rates |
| Substrate | Substance an enzyme acts upon to catalyze a reaction |
| Vmax | Maximum reaction rate achieved by an enzyme |
| Km | Michaelis constant determining substrate affinity |
| Kcat | Turnover number, representing catalytic efficiency |
| Unit Conversions | Convert mmol/L to mol/L or other units used in calculations |
This resource is designed to assist users by providing quick references or conversions pertinent to the Michaelis-Menten equation.
Example of Michaelis-Menten Calculator
Let’s consider the enzymatic activity involved in the digestion of carbohydrates by the enzyme amylase in the human body. Amylase breaks down starches (substrate) into simpler sugars like maltose.
Background Information:
- Substrate (Starch): 5 mmol/L
- Vmax: 10 mmol/s
- Michaelis Constant (Km): 2 mmol/L
Using the Michaelis-Menten Calculator:
We’ll apply the Michaelis-Menten equation V = (Vmax * [S]) / (Km + [S]) to determine the initial velocity (V) of the enzymatic reaction.
Given the values:
- Vmax = 10 mmol/s
- [S] = 5 mmol/L
- Km = 2 mmol/L
Calculation:
V = (10 * 5) / (2 + 5) V = (50) / (7) V ≈ 7.14 mmol/s
Most Common FAQs
Answer: Vmax represents an enzyme’s maximum velocity, while Km reflects substrate concentration at half-maximal velocity. These parameters help assess enzyme efficiency and substrate affinity.
Answer: This equation aids in drug development, metabolic pathway analysis, and understanding enzymatic reactions in living organisms.
Answer: Although primarily used in enzymology, its principles are applicable in chemical kinetics and pharmacokinetics, modeling reaction rates and substrate interactions.