active site

noun

: a region on the surface of an enzyme whose shape permits binding only of a specific molecular substrate that then undergoes catalysis

Examples of active site in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Overall, the simple breaking of one chemical bond has at least four distinct stages and requires multiple amino acids to be positioned within the enzyme's active site with atomic precision. John Timmer, Ars Technica, 14 Feb. 2025 The unique grooves in the enzyme – the lock – that interact with the target molecule – the key – are found in a region of the enzyme known as the active site. Sam Pellock, The Conversation, 13 Feb. 2025 The first one reacts with the substrate surface at active sites, the points on the precursor molecules and on the surface of the substrate where the two materials chemically bond. IEEE Spectrum, 12 Sep. 2024 Aubrey Valley/Double O Ranch is the only active site in the state. Austin Corona, The Arizona Republic, 23 Sep. 2024 See All Example Sentences for active site

Word History

First Known Use

1957, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of active site was in 1957

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Cite this Entry

“Active site.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/active%20site. Accessed 1 Mar. 2025.

Medical Definition

active site

noun
: a region especially of a biologically active protein (as an enzyme) where catalytic activity takes place and whose shape permits the binding only of a specific reactant molecule

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