Enzimnevezéktan

Enzimnevezéktan, or enzyme nomenclature, is the system used for naming enzymes. Enzymes are biological catalysts, predominantly proteins, that accelerate biochemical reactions. A standardized nomenclature is crucial for clarity and consistency in scientific communication. The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (IUBMB) is responsible for developing and maintaining these rules.

The current system assigns each enzyme a unique four-part number, known as an EC number. This number reflects the enzyme's catalytic activity and the type of reaction it catalyzes. The first digit indicates the class of reaction, the second the subclass, the third the sub-subclass, and the fourth is a serial number for the specific enzyme within that sub-subclass. For example, EC 1.1.1.1 refers to an oxidoreductase that acts on the CH-OH group of donors with NAD+ or NADP+ as the acceptor.

Beyond the EC number, enzymes also have systematic names and recommended trivial names. The systematic name provides a more detailed description of the reaction catalyzed, often incorporating the substrate and the type of reaction. Trivial names are shorter, more commonly used names that have arisen historically. While systematic names are precise, trivial names are often more practical for everyday use. The development of enzimnevezéktan ensures that scientists worldwide can unambiguously identify and discuss specific enzymes, facilitating research and understanding of biological processes.