Coenzyme

Definition

A coenzyme is a non-protein organic molecule that binds to an enzyme and is essential for its activity. Coenzymes often act as carriers for chemical groups or electrons during enzymatic reactions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Coenzymes are typically derived from vitamins and are crucial for the function of many enzymes in microbial metabolism.
2. They often participate in redox reactions by acting as electron carriers, such as NAD+ and FAD.
3. Coenzymes bind to the active site of an enzyme, altering its conformation to facilitate substrate binding and catalysis.
4. Unlike enzymes, coenzymes are not permanently altered by the reaction and can be reused multiple times.
5. The availability of coenzymes can limit the rate of metabolic reactions in microorganisms.

Review Questions

Related terms

Enzyme:

A protein that acts as a biological catalyst, speeding up chemical reactions without being consumed.

NAD+:

A common coenzyme involved in redox reactions, carrying electrons from one reaction to another.

Active Site:

The specific region on an enzyme where substrate molecules bind and undergo a chemical reaction.