The Induced Fit Model describes the dynamic mechanistic process wherein an enzyme's active site undergoes a conformational change upon ligand binding to optimize catalytic efficiency. This theory posits that the enzyme-substrate complex is not a static lock-and-key structure but an evolving arrangement where the protein fold adjusts to precisely align catalytic groups and stabilize the transition state. The concept defines the structural basis for substrate specificity and catalytic rate enhancement within the broader domain of chemical kinetics and biochemistry.
Prerequisite chain context: requires Enzyme Substrate Specificity Concepts.