Cofactor (biochemistry)
Cofactor (biochemistry)
Cofactor (pronunciation: /ˈkoʊˌfæk.tər/) is a term in Biochemistry that refers to a non-protein chemical compound or metallic ion that is required for an Enzyme's activity as a catalyst, a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction. Cofactors can be considered "helper molecules" that assist in biochemical transformations.
Etymology
The term "cofactor" comes from the Latin co- meaning "together", and factor meaning "doer or maker". It was first used in the context of biochemistry in the early 20th century.
Types of Cofactors
Cofactors can be divided into two major groups: organic cofactors, also known as coenzymes, and inorganic cofactors, which are typically metal ions.
Organic Cofactors (Coenzymes)
Coenzymes are organic molecules that are required by certain enzymes to carry out catalysis. They are often vitamins or are made from vitamins. Common examples include NAD+, FAD, and Coenzyme A.
Inorganic Cofactors
Inorganic cofactors are typically metal ions. They can be incorporated into the active site and assist in enzyme function. Examples include Zinc, Iron, and Copper ions.
Role in Biochemical Reactions
Cofactors are crucial for the biological activity of many proteins. They can assist in the performance of the enzyme and even participate directly in the chemical reaction that the enzyme catalyzes. In some cases, the cofactor remains unchanged at the end of the reaction; in others, it may be chemically altered as part of the reaction process.
Related Terms
- Prosthetic group: A tightly bound cofactor required for the biological function of some proteins.
- Holoenzyme: An enzyme that contains its cofactor(s).
- Apoenzyme: An enzyme without its cofactor(s).
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Cofactor (biochemistry)
- Wikipedia's article - Cofactor (biochemistry)
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