The induced fit model is the correct representation of enzyme-substrate complementarity
the verdict
CONTESTED
the evidence cuts both ways
confidence 31/100
While the classic induced-fit model remains a foundational concept in enzymology supported by numerous studies on substrate-driven conformational changes, modern biophysical research demonstrates that many enzymes actually utilize a combination of conformational selection and induced-fit mechanisms.
Evidence for · 5
Rational modulation of the induced-fit conformational change for slow-onset inhibition in M. tuberculosis InhA
2015 · cited by 33
This study validates the induced-fit mechanistic hypothesis involving substrate-binding loop conformational changes.
Evidence against · 3
Leveraging conformational ensembles in allosteric drug discovery.
2026 · cited by 2
This paper notes that the traditional strict induced-fit model has limitations and that proteins actually exist as dynamic conformational ensembles.
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More for · 4
An induced-fit model for asymmetric organocatalytic reactions: a case study of the activation of olefins via chiral Brønsted acid catalysts
2022 · cited by 7
This work describes catalyst-substrate interactions using a dispersion-driven induced-fit model.
The Role of Protein Side Chains in Enzyme-Activating Conformational Changes: Lessons from Studies on Variant Enzymes.
2025 · cited by 1
This paper highlights how substrate-driven protein conformational changes achieve optimal transition-state stabilization, consistent with induced-fit mechanisms.
Pen and palm model to envision the coexistence of induced-fit and substrate-strain theories of enzyme action.
2024 · cited by 1
This educational model illustrates how the induced-fit theory explains enzyme-substrate engagement.
Antlion Strategy for Enzyme Specificity
2012 · cited by 1
This research demonstrates that substrate-induced conformational changes govern enzyme specificity.
More against · 2
Redox partner adrenodoxin induces substrate binding to steroidogenic cytochrome P450 11B2 and 11A1 by promoting a conformational change
2025 · cited by 1
This study finds that substrate binding does not rely solely on induced fit, but rather on combined or branched models involving conformational selection steps.
GID4 Recognition of Pro/N-Degron Peptides: Conformational Selection and Induced Fit.
2025 · cited by 1
This research shows that substrate recognition follows a combined mechanism of both conformational selection and induced fit rather than pure induced fit.