What is the effect of fever on body enzymes?

Fever can increase the rate of enzyme activity, but extreme temperatures may denature them, reducing their effectiveness.

Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions in the body. They function optimally at a specific temperature, known as the optimum temperature. For most human enzymes, this is around 37 degrees Celsius, the normal body temperature. When a person has a fever, their body temperature rises above the normal range. This can initially increase the rate of enzyme activity, as the higher temperature provides more kinetic energy for the molecules involved in the reaction.

However, if the fever becomes too high, it can have a detrimental effect on enzymes. This is because enzymes are proteins, and proteins can be denatured by extreme temperatures. Denaturation involves the breaking of the hydrogen bonds that hold the protein in its specific shape. When an enzyme is denatured, its active site changes shape, and it can no longer bind to its substrate effectively. This reduces the enzyme's ability to catalyse reactions, and can therefore slow down or even halt important metabolic processes in the body.

In addition, prolonged high temperatures can lead to the aggregation of denatured proteins, forming insoluble complexes that can disrupt cellular functions. This is one of the reasons why very high fevers can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening.

In summary, while a mild increase in body temperature due to fever can enhance enzyme activity, a high fever can denature enzymes and impair their function. This delicate balance underscores the importance of maintaining a stable internal body temperature for optimal enzyme function and overall health.