👉 Fumes, in the context of enzymes, refer to the transient, often harmful byproducts that can form when certain enzymes catalyze reactions under specific conditions, such as extreme pH or temperature, or with substrates that are not fully oxidized. These fumes are typically reactive intermediates or unstable compounds that can cause cellular damage if not properly managed. For example, in the denaturation of enzymes, improper folding or environmental stress can lead to the formation of these reactive species, which may lead to oxidative stress, protein aggregation, or even cell death. Understanding and controlling these fumes is crucial in biotechnology and industrial applications where enzyme stability and activity are critical.
