Which suffix is commonly used in naming enzymes?

Which suffix is commonly used in naming enzymes?

• A. -ase
• B. -itis
• C. -ology
• D. -ectomy

Answer: (A)

The suffix commonly used in naming enzymes is -ase. This ending signifies that the molecule has a function related to catalyzing a biochemical reaction. For example, lactase is an enzyme that helps break down lactose, and lipase is an enzyme involved in the breakdown of lipids. The other suffixes listed do not pertain to enzymes. The suffix -itis refers to inflammation of an organ (like arthritis, which is inflammation of the joints), -ology denotes the study of a particular subject (as seen in biology, the study of life), and -ectomy indicates the surgical removal of a specific part of the body (such as an appendectomy, which is the removal of the appendix). Thus, -ase is the definitive suffix associated with enzymes, highlighting their role in facilitating biological processes.

The suffix commonly used in naming enzymes is -ase. This ending signifies that the molecule has a function related to catalyzing a biochemical reaction. For example, lactase is an enzyme that helps break down lactose, and lipase is an enzyme involved in the breakdown of lipids.

The other suffixes listed do not pertain to enzymes. The suffix -itis refers to inflammation of an organ (like arthritis, which is inflammation of the joints), -ology denotes the study of a particular subject (as seen in biology, the study of life), and -ectomy indicates the surgical removal of a specific part of the body (such as an appendectomy, which is the removal of the appendix). Thus, -ase is the definitive suffix associated with enzymes, highlighting their role in facilitating biological processes.