Enzymes are

Options

A. Proteins
B. Lipids
C. Carbohydrates
D. Nucleic acids

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Enzymes:**
- Enzymes are biological catalysts that accelerate chemical reactions in living organisms.

2. **Nature of Enzymes:**
- Enzymes are primarily composed of proteins. They are essential for various metabolic processes in the body.

3. **Function of Enzymes:**
- Enzymes increase the rate of biochemical reactions by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to occur.

4. **Specificity of Enzymes:**
- Each enzyme is specific to a particular substrate (the substance upon which an enzyme acts). This specificity is crucial for the proper functioning of metabolic pathways.

5. **Examples of Enzymes:**
- Common examples of enzymes include:
- **Amylase:** Breaks down starch into sugars.
- **Maltase:** Converts maltose (a sugar) into glucose.
- **Lipase:** Aids in the digestion of fats.
- **Trypsin:** Breaks down proteins into amino acids in the small intestine.

6. **Conclusion:**
- Based on the information, we can conclude that enzymes are proteins that serve as biological catalysts in various metabolic processes.