Enzymes are proteins that act as catalysts to accelerate chemical reactions in living organisms. They are highly specific and reusable. Most enzymes have tertiary and quaternary protein structures and contain an active site that binds to substrates. The substrate induces a fit between the enzyme and substrate that lowers the activation energy of the reaction. Environmental conditions like temperature and pH can impact enzyme activity, as can cofactors, coenzymes, and enzyme inhibitors which may compete for or alter the active site.