Cofactor
nonprotein portion of an enzyme that is necessary for catalytic function ; examples are metallic ions such as Zn² + and Mg2 + .
A cofactor is a non-protein chemical compound that binds to a protein molecule called an enzyme to help it carry out its biological function. Cofactors can be organic or inorganic molecules and are essential for enzyme activity.
There are two types of cofactors – coenzymes and prosthetic groups. Coenzymes are organic molecules, such as vitamins, that temporarily bind to an enzyme molecule to assist in the catalytic reaction. Prosthetic groups, on the other hand, are tightly bound to the enzyme and permanently help in the enzyme function.
Cofactors can also be classified as activators or inhibitors, depending on whether they increase or decrease enzyme activity, respectively.
In summary, cofactors are important molecules that allow enzymes to carry out their biological function effectively and efficiently.
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