Switching mechanism of a cyclic enzyme system: role as a "chemical diode".

We previously showed with computer simulations that cyclic enzyme systems play a role in metabolic switching events. In the present study, the detailed switching mechanism was investigated by clarifying the relationship between the switching mode and the phase-difference of two sinusoidal inputs to the cyclic enzyme system. The switching time could be predicted theoretically. Half-wave and full-wave rectifications were observed when the phase-difference of two sinusoidal inputs is equal to pi. This result indicates the possibility that this cyclic enzyme system is available for use as a switching circuit (biochip) in a bio-computer.