Coenzymes, cofactors and prosthetic groups Flashcards
What are cofactors and coenzymes
Non protein helper components for enzymes to carry out their role as biological catalysts
Cofactors= inorganic, minerals in diet
Coenzymes= organic, vitamins in diet
How are prosthetic groups different to cofactors and coenzymes?
Example of cofactors that form a permanent part of the enzymes structure, form the final 3D shape
What is precursor actiavtion?
When an inactive form of an enzyme is activated by the addition of a cofactor, or a change in conditions such as temperature or pH. This changes the tertiary structure of the enzyme, the shape of the active site.
Apoenzyme- Holoenzyme
Particularly needed in enzymes that can cause damage to the tissue where they are released