Catalytic proteins, also known as enzymes, are biological molecules that speed up chemical reactions in living organisms. They achieve this by lowering the activation energy required for reactions to occur, making processes like digestion and metabolism more efficient. Each enzyme is specific to a particular reaction or type of reaction, often working on specific substrates to produce products. These proteins are crucial for various cellular functions, including breaking down nutrients and synthesizing DNA. Enzymes are influenced by factors such as temperature and pH, which can affect their activity. Examples of catalytic proteins include amylase, which helps digest carbohydrates, and DNA polymerase, essential for DNA replication.