2.4.8 Coenzymes, Cofactors & Prosthetic Groups

Question 1

What are cofactors?

Answer 1

• Inorganic ions
• Stabilise structure of enzyme
• Changing their tertiary structure
• Allowing active site to bind correctly with substrate

Question 2

Why is chlorine useful as a cofactor?

Answer 2

• Amylase needs it
• Amylase can digest starch with chloride ions present

Question 3

What are coenzymes?

Answer 3

• Organic cofactors
• Carry electrons or chemical groups between enzymes aiding in catalysis

Question 4

Why are vitamins an important source for coenzymes?

Answer 4

• Vitamin B used as a component of
• Coenzyme A
• Nicotinic acid (produce NAD and NADP)
• FAD

Question 5

Examples of coenzyme functions?

Answer 5

• NAD and FAD oxidised and reduced
• ATP and coenzyme A transfer chemical groups (ATP gives phosphate group)

Question 6

What are prosthetic groups? Example?

Answer 6

• Permanent cofactors
• Form final 3D shape of enzyme forming correct active site
• Zinc ion for carbonic anhydrase