Which enzyme is activated by calcium ions?

The activation of enzymes by calcium ions plays a significant role in various biochemical pathways, particularly in muscle contractions and neurotransmitter release. In this context, amylase is the enzyme involved, as it is activated by calcium ions during the digestion of carbohydrates. Amylase is responsible for breaking down starches into sugars, and calcium acts as a cofactor that enhances its activity.

The other enzymes listed do not directly require calcium ions for their activation. Lactate dehydrogenase functions in anaerobic metabolism and does not have a known dependency on calcium for its activity. Alanine aminotransferase, involved in amino acid metabolism, also operates independently of calcium ions. Creatine kinase, which plays a crucial role in energy production in muscle cells, is not directly activated by calcium; rather, it is influenced by the cellular ATP and ADP ratios.

Understanding the specific interaction of calcium ions with amylase emphasizes the importance of divalent cations in enzyme activity modulation and showcases how various enzymes play unique roles in biochemical pathways.