Aqueous solutions that model the cytosol: studies on polarity, chemical reactivity and enzyme kinetics†
Abstract
Concentrated solutions of a series of organic compounds have been prepared and the effects of these solutes on the properties of the solvent system assessed as a function of their concentration and nature. Polarity, as measured by Reichardt's ET(30) probe, exhibits a linear variation with both solute and water concentration for simple solutes. Non-linear behaviour was also observed and is associated with preferential solvation or binding of the ET(30) probe molecule by the added solute. The observed trends in polarity are mirrored in the effects of these solutes on chemical reactivity and enzyme kinetics. Environmental effects on the kinetics of