Basis of differentiation | Ligase | Lyase |
Definition | Is a class of enzymes that catalyze reactions that bind or join biological macromolecules | Is a class of enzymes that catalyze reactions that cleave or break the chemical bond in biological molecules |
Effect on chemical bonds | Results in the formation of covalent bonds between molecules | Results in the formation of double bonds or breaking of existing bonds |
Energy requirement | Require energy in the form of ATP to form new bonds | Generally do not require external energy sources |
Water involvement | Often involve hydrolysis reactions with the use of water molecules | Generally act by an elimination reaction without the involvement of water in their catalytic mechanism |
Reactants | Act on two molecules or substrates or reactants simultaneously per reaction | Act on a single molecule or substrate at a time in a reaction |
Biological significance |
|
|
Role in metabolism | Play a crucial role in processes such as DNA replication, repair, and the synthesis of RNA and proteins | Play a crucial role in various metabolic pathways, such as the glycolysis and Kreb cycle |
Example reaction | DNA ligase catalyzes the joining of Okazaki fragments during DNA replication | Carbonic anhydrase catalyzes the hydration of carbon dioxide to bicarbonate |