What is the function of lyases in enzymatic reactions?

Lyases play a pivotal role in enzymatic reactions by catalyzing the cleavage of a single molecule into two products without the need for water, which differentiates them from hydrolases that do require water for the cleavage process. This action typically involves the formation of a double bond or a new ring structure as a consequence of the reaction. Lyases can also catalyze the reverse reaction, where they synthesize molecules by joining two substrates together, but this is usually through the addition of a group to a double bond rather than direct water involvement.

Understanding this function highlights the unique role of lyases in metabolic pathways, as they can aid in the breakdown of larger substrates into smaller, more manageable products that can subsequently enter various biosynthetic or energy-yielding pathways.