allosteeric

Allosteric refers to a process involving allosteric sites. An allosteric site is a region on a protein that is distinct from the active site. When a molecule, known as an allosteric effector or modulator, binds to the allosteric site, it causes a conformational change in the protein. This change in shape can either increase or decrease the protein's activity at its active site. This mechanism is crucial for regulating the function of many biological molecules, including enzymes and receptors.

Allosteric regulation allows for fine-tuning of biological pathways. For example, a metabolic enzyme might be inhibited by the accumulation of its own product, a form of negative feedback mediated by allosteric regulation. Conversely, a pathway might be activated by an intermediate molecule binding to an allosteric site, promoting further reactions. This type of regulation is highly specific, as allosteric effectors typically bind only to their intended allosteric sites. The principle is fundamental to understanding how cells control complex biochemical processes and respond to changing internal and external conditions. Proteins that exhibit allosteric behavior are often referred to as allosteric proteins.