4.4 Cofactors, Coenzymes and Prosthetic Groups Flashcards
1
Q
What are cofactors?
A
- a non-protein component which can help an enzyme to carry out is function
- These can be obtained via diet; they are minerals
(e. g. iron, zinc, calcium, chloride and zinc ions)
2
Q
What are coenzymes?
A
- organic molecules which help the enzyme to carry out its function (organic cofactors)
- these are derived from vitamins
3
Q
What are prosthetic groups?
A
- cofactors which bind permanently to the enzyme
- (cofactors & coenzyme = temporary, prosthetic = permanent)
4
Q
What are precursor enzymes?
A
- Enzymes which are initially inactive
- These enzymes are usually enzymes which would cause damage to the cells that produce them if they were activated, or an enzyme which needs to be controlled after certain conditions
5
Q
What is precursor activation?
A
- The activation of a precursor enzyme
- this activation causes a change in the tertiary structure
6
Q
What is an apoenzyme?
A
A precursor protein before activation
7
Q
What is a haloenzyme?
A
A precursor enzyme after activation