Cofactor (biochemistry)

Cofactor (biochemistry)

A cofactor is a non-protein chemical compound or metallic ion that is required for an enzyme's activity as a catalyst, a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction. Cofactors can be considered "helper molecules" that assist in biochemical transformations.

Types of Cofactors

Cofactors can be divided into two major groups: organic cofactors, also known as coenzymes, and inorganic cofactors, which are metal ions.

Organic Cofactors

Coenzymes are organic molecules that are required by certain enzymes to carry out catalysis. They are often vitamins or made from vitamins. Many contain the nucleotide adenosine monophosphate (AMP) as part of their structures, such as ATP, coenzyme A, FAD, and NAD+.

Inorganic Cofactors

Inorganic cofactors, or mineral ions, include magnesium and iron. They often work by stabilizing negative charges on the enzyme or substrates.

Role in Biochemical Reactions

Cofactors are essential for the efficient functioning of enzymes. They help in stabilizing the enzyme structure and enhancing the enzyme's ability to interact with its substrate, the molecule it is designed to act upon.

Clinical Significance

Deficiency or malfunction of cofactors can lead to metabolic diseases. For example, a deficiency in the cofactor vitamin B12 can lead to anemia.

See Also

• Enzyme
• Coenzyme
• Vitamin
• Metabolic disorder