French chemist Anselme Payen is credited with the discovery of the first enzyme, diastase, in 1833.
The Discovery of Diastase
Payen's groundbreaking work marked the beginning of enzyme research. Before this, the concept of biological catalysts was not clearly defined.
Details of the Discovery
- Anselme Payen discovered diastase while studying malt extracts.
- Diastase is an enzyme that breaks down starch into sugar.
- This discovery demonstrated the existence of biological molecules that could accelerate chemical reactions within living organisms.
Impact of Payen's Discovery
Payen's discovery of diastase had a major impact on the field of biochemistry. It paved the way for further studies on enzyme function and structure, leading to a deeper understanding of various biological processes.
| Discovery | Discoverer | Year | Enzyme | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Enzyme | Anselme Payen | 1833 | Diastase | Demonstrated biological catalysts, opening the field of enzymology |
Payen's discovery was a crucial turning point in the understanding of biological chemistry, establishing the existence of enzymes as essential components of life.
