Cofactors, coenzymes, prosthetic groups Flashcards
What is a cofactor?
A non-protein component of an enzyme that helps them carry out their catalytic function
How do cofactors help enzymes?
They bind to an enzyme + interact with the tertiary structure to take certain things away to allow it to work
What are the 2 types of cofactors?
Inorganic cofactors and coenzymes
What are coenzymes?
Small, non-amino acid, organic compounds needed by some enzymes to work
How do coenzymes help enzymes?
They bind temporarily to enzyme + strain the bonds in the protein to make the active site ready for reaction
What happens to the shape of coenzymes during reactions?
Their shape often changes but always goes back
Are all coenzymes used up?
No, so they can be recycled
What is a prosthetic group?
A type of cofactor that chemically binds to the enzyme so it becomes chemically part of it
Are all coenzymes + prosthetic groups cofactors?
Yes but not all cofactors are coenzymes + prosthetic groups
What are the 3 enzymes we need to know for these?
Amylase, carbonic anhydrase, and adenyl cyclase (and catalase)
