Coenzyme
Coenzyme
Coenzyme (pronounced: /koʊˈɛnzaɪm/) is a non-protein compound that is necessary for the functioning of an enzyme. It is a type of molecule that assists in various biochemical transformations, making them crucial for many biological processes.
Etymology
The term "coenzyme" comes from the prefix 'co-', meaning 'together', and 'enzyme', which refers to a type of protein that catalyzes biochemical reactions. Thus, a coenzyme works together with an enzyme to facilitate important biological reactions.
Function
Coenzymes play a vital role in the metabolism of organisms. They bind to the enzyme and assist in carrying out the enzyme's function. This can include transferring certain chemical groups from one molecule to another or helping to stabilize the enzyme's structure.
Types of Coenzymes
There are several types of coenzymes, including:
- NAD+ (Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide): This coenzyme is involved in many redox reactions in the cell.
- FAD (Flavin adenine dinucleotide): This coenzyme is also involved in redox reactions, particularly in the mitochondria.
- Coenzyme A: This coenzyme is involved in the synthesis and oxidation of fatty acids, as well as in the oxidation of pyruvate in the citric acid cycle.
Related Terms
- Enzyme: A protein that catalyzes biochemical reactions.
- Metabolism: The set of life-sustaining chemical reactions in organisms.
- Molecule: The smallest particle in a chemical element or compound.
- Biochemical: Relating to the chemistry of living organisms.
- Biological: Relating to biology or living organisms.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Coenzyme
- Wikipedia's article - Coenzyme
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