coenzymes, cofactors and prosthetic groups

Question 1

what is the need for cofactors, coenzymes and prosthetic groups?

Answer 1

-some enzymes will only work if there is a non protein substance bound to them
-they modify the strudcture of enzyme

Question 2

-explain activators/cofactors

-give an example

Answer 2

-ions e.g metal ions
-not permanently attached
-don’t directly participate in reaction
-change charge distribution and sometimes shape of active site

example:
-chloride ions are cofactors for amylase

Question 3

explain coenzymes
give an example

Answer 3

-organic
-participate in reaction
-vitamins are often sources
-not permanent

example:
-NAD for respiration from vitamin B

Question 4

explain prosthetic groups
give an example

Answer 4

-permanent
-part of enzyme’s structure

example:
zinc (Zn 2+) prosthetic group for carbonic anhydrase