Enzymes are biological molecules that act as catalysts to speed up chemical reactions in living organisms. They play a crucial role in various metabolic processes, such as digestion, respiration, and energy production. Enzymes work by lowering the activation energy required for a reaction to occur, allowing it to proceed more quickly and efficiently. They are highly specific, meaning each enzyme catalyzes a specific reaction or set of reactions. Enzymes are essential for maintaining the proper functioning of cells and organisms.