Which enzyme is activated by calcium ions?

The correct answer pertains to amylase, which is a digestive enzyme responsible for breaking down carbohydrates. Amylase is activated by calcium ions, which play a crucial role in the enzyme's structural configuration and function. Calcium ions influence the enzyme's active site, allowing it to properly bind to its substrate and carry out its catalytic function effectively.

Calcium's role in activating amylase highlights the importance of cofactors in enzymatic reactions. Many enzymes require additional non-protein molecules, such as ions, to achieve their active form and perform their biological functions.

In contrast, the other enzymes listed do not rely on calcium ions for activation. Creatine kinase (CK) is more dependent on other cofactors, while alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and lactate dehydrogenase (LD) do not have a direct activation mechanism involving calcium ions. Recognizing how specific ions influence the activation of certain enzymes is essential in understanding enzymatic processes in clinical chemistry.