temperature

Last reviewed 01/2018

An increase in temperature raises the kinetic energy of the molecules involved in an enzyme-catalyzed reaction. The rate of reaction increases. Typically, for every 10 degrees C rise in temperature, the rate of reaction increases by 1.5-2.5 fold. However, as temperature rises above 40 degrees C, the bonds within the enzyme begins to become disrupted. Prolonged exposure to elevated temperature results in enzymatic denaturing and loss of activity.

Mammalian enzymes work optimally at around 37 degrees C.