Proteins are large, complex molecules made up of long chains of amino acids. These amino acids are linked together by peptide bonds, forming a polypeptide chain. The specific sequence of amino acids in a protein determines its three-dimensional structure, which in turn determines its function.

Enzymes are biological catalysts, meaning they speed up chemical reactions without being consumed in the process. Their active sites, specific regions within their structure, bind to and interact with molecules called substrates, facilitating the conversion of these substrates into products.

Therefore, enzymes are carbon-based molecules specifically belonging to the class of proteins.