Understanding the Role of Cofactors in Biochemistry: Importance, Types, and Health Implications

cofactor

inorganic ion, such as iron and magnesium ions, required for optimal enzyme activity regulation

In biochemistry, a cofactor refers to a non-protein chemical compound or metallic ion that is required for an enzyme’s activity as a catalyst. Cofactors can be divided into two groups: inorganic and organic. Inorganic cofactors include metallic ions such as zinc, copper, iron, and magnesium; while organic cofactors include coenzymes such as flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD), nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), and biotin.

Cofactors are essential for many biological processes such as cellular respiration, DNA synthesis and repair, and the metabolism of drugs and toxins in the body. Without cofactors, these essential biological processes would either occur at a much slower rate or not occur at all.

Cofactors can be obtained from the diet, and therefore dietary deficiencies can lead to deficiencies in cofactors which can cause a range of health problems. For example, a deficiency in zinc cofactor can impair the immune system and cause growth retardation, while a deficiency in iron cofactor can lead to anaemia.

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