Cofactors
What are the 5 Cofactors?
The five cofactors are NAD⁺, FAD, Coenzyme A, magnesium ions (Mg²⁺), and iron ions (Fe²⁺/Fe³⁺).
What are the Two Main Types of Cofactors?
The two main types of cofactors are inorganic cofactors, such as metal ions, and organic cofactors, which include coenzymes.
Is NADH a Cofactor?
NADH is not a cofactor itself but is derived from the reduction of the coenzyme NAD⁺ during biochemical reactions.
What is the Function of the Coenzyme?
Coenzymes assist enzymes by transferring chemical groups or electrons between molecules, facilitating biochemical reactions and metabolic processes in cells.
Is Coenzyme a Vitamin?
Not all coenzymes are vitamins, but many coenzymes are derived from vitamins, which serve as essential precursors for their synthesis.
Cofactors
Cofactors are non-protein chemical compounds or metallic ions that are essential for an enzyme’s biological activity. They can be organic molecules, called coenzymes, or inorganic ions. The cofactor’s function is to assist enzymes in catalyzing reactions by stabilizing transition states, enhancing substrate binding, or participating directly in the chemical reaction. Common cofactor examples include vitamins and metal ions like magnesium and iron.
Table of Content
- Cofactor Meaning
- Example of Cofactors
- Types of Cofactors
- Function of Cofactor
- Cofactor vs Coenzymes
- Conclusion: Cofactors
- FAQs on Cofactors