Enzymes with a K_cat /K_m Ratio of About 10⁸ M^-1s^-1

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Enzymes with a k_cat /K_m ratio of about 10⁸ M^-1s^-1 are considered to show optimal catalytic efficiency. Fumarase, which catalyzes the reversible-dehydration reaction has a ratio of turnover number to the Michaelis-Menten constant, (k_cat/K_m) of 1.6 × 10⁸ for the substrate fumarate and 3.6 × 10⁷ for the substrate malate. Because the turnover number for both substrates is nearly identical, what factors might be involved that explain the different ratio for the two substrates?

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Definitions:

Conversion Cost

The expenses directly related to the transformation of raw materials into finished goods, including labor and manufacturing overhead costs.

Manufacturing Overhead

Indirect costs associated with manufacturing, such as maintenance, utilities, and quality control, not directly traceable to a specific product.

Direct Labor

Labor costs directly tied to the production of goods or services, which include wages for workers who physically produce a product.

Manufacturing Overhead

Expenses related to the manufacturing process that are not directly tied to the production of goods, such as utility costs, maintenance, and factory rent.