What is the function of enzymes in biological processes?

Enzymes play a critical role in biological processes by acting as biological catalysts. This means they facilitate and speed up chemical reactions in living organisms without being consumed in the process. Enzymes lower the activation energy required for reactions to occur, allowing metabolic processes to proceed at a much faster rate than they would otherwise.

Each enzyme is specific to a particular substrate, which means they only catalyze specific reactions, thereby contributing to the regulation and efficiency of metabolic pathways. This catalytic activity is essential for processes such as digestion, energy production, DNA replication, and many others that are vital for life.

By catalyzing reactions, enzymes enable the complex biochemical activities necessary for maintaining life, differentiating their role from the structural support, energy storage, or nutrient transport functions outlined in the other options.