Catalase & Enzyme Diversity

Marie Curie in her chemistry lab at the Institut du Radium in Paris, 1921. Source : Musée Curie (coll. ACJC)

Continuing on our discussion of catalysis and enzymes, we summarized the catalase experiment we conducted last lesson.

We learned about the important biological purpose of catalase in prevention of accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and how ROS can impact the cell. Using the computer program ChimeraX, each of the Cogitanians looked at a catalase from different species, comparing these to that of yeast catalase.

In this discussion, the students exercised excellent scientific reasoning for the adaptation mechanisms presented in each structure.

In addition to the need for everyone to have their kits, safety eyewear and gloves, I would also like for them to each use a computer with ChimeraX installed (the program we use to visualize proteins). While the last 2 sessions were primarily focused on reactions, kinetics and enzymes in general; next (or two) will focus on active sites, inhibition and how enzymes are able to catalyze a reaction

ChimeraX Resources:

ChimeraX is free for academic, government, nonprofit, and personal use and is available for Mac, Windows and Linux operating systems.

Download ChimeraX

UCSF ChimeraX is the next-generation molecular visualization program from the Resource for Biocomputing, Visualization, and Informatics (RBVI) at UC San Francisco.

Online Tutorials and User Guide