4.4 Cofactors of Enzymes

Question 1

What do some enzymes need to carry out their function?

Answer 1

A non-protein “helper” component

Question 2

What are the two things that a cofactor can do?

Answer 2

-Transfer atoms or groups from one reaction or another in a multi-step pathway
-Form part of the active site of an enzyme (only inorganic ions)

Question 3

What are the two types of co-factors?

Answer 3

Co-enzymes (organic molecules), mineral ions (inorganic)

Question 4

How are inorganic cofactors obtained?

Answer 4

Through the diet as minerals

Question 5

What do inorganic cofactors do?

Answer 5

Help the enzyme and substrate bind together by changing the shape of the active site

Question 6

What are chloride ions the cofactor for?

Answer 6

Amylase

Question 7

What are co-enzymes?

Answer 7

Most derived from vitamins found in the diet. Organic molecules

Question 8

What do co-enzymes do?

Answer 8

-Bind temporarily to the enzyme, and move chemical groups or atoms needed for the reaction to occur between molecules. Act as “carriers”