A coenzyme differs from a cofactor in that a coenzyme is

Correct answer: B. an organic molecule, often derived from a vitamin

  • A. an inorganic metal ion
  • B. an organic molecule, often derived from a vitamin
  • C. part of the polypeptide chain
  • D. a type of substrate

Explanation

NAD, FAD and coenzyme A are organic helpers built from niacin, riboflavin and pantothenic acid respectively, whereas cofactors such as zinc and magnesium ions are inorganic. A helper bound tightly and permanently is called a prosthetic group instead. This is why vitamin deficiencies cause such widespread metabolic effects.

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About Enzymes as Biocatalysts

Enzymes are protein or RNA biocatalysts that lower activation energy without being consumed, and their active sites bind specific substrates. The topic covers the lock and key and induced fit models, effects of temperature, pH and substrate concentration, cofactors, enzyme specificity, and competitive versus non-competitive inhibition.

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