What distinguishes enzymes from other proteins?

Enzymes are specialized proteins that act as catalysts in biochemical reactions. This means they significantly increase the rate at which chemical reactions occur without being consumed in the process. By lowering the activation energy required for reactions, enzymes enable crucial metabolic processes to happen more efficiently and at a faster pace. This catalytic function is what fundamentally distinguishes enzymes from other types of proteins, which may serve different roles such as providing structural support, storing energy, or being involved in immune responses. Options that categorize enzymes based on functions unrelated to their catalytic activity do not capture the essence of what makes enzymes unique in the realm of proteins.