Question

What is ‘feedback inhibition’?

Answer 1

Feedback inhibition is a cellular control mechanism in which the end-product of a metabolic pathway acts as an inhibitor for an enzyme that functions early in that same pathway. When the final product accumulates in excess, it binds to a specific regulatory area on the enzyme known as the allosteric site. This binding causes a physical change in the enzyme’s shape, preventing it from binding to its substrate and effectively shutting down the entire production line. This process is essential for maintaining homeostasis, as it prevents the wasteful overproduction of substances and ensures that the cell conserves energy and raw materials by only synthesising products as they are needed.