These are water-soluble organic molecules derived from B vitamins, essential for the function of numerous enzymes, particularly those involved in energy metabolism and cellular biosynthesis. B vitamin cofactors are indispensable for critical biochemical reactions, including the methylation cycle and the synthesis of neurotransmitters and steroid hormones. They do not possess intrinsic catalytic activity but are necessary for enzyme activation.
Origin
The concept is foundational to nutritional biochemistry and enzymology, recognizing the role of vitamins as necessary components for metabolic pathways. The term cofactor highlights their functional partnership with apoenzymes to form active holoenzymes. Each B vitamin, such as B6 (pyridoxal phosphate) and B12 (methylcobalamin), has a distinct cofactor form with a specialized biological role.
Mechanism
B vitamin cofactors facilitate the transfer of functional groups, such as methyl groups in the folate and methionine cycles, or hydride ions in dehydrogenase reactions. For example, Vitamin B5 is a precursor to Coenzyme A, vital for the entry of substrates into the Krebs cycle for ATP generation. Their action is direct: they bind to an enzyme’s active site, enabling the enzyme to catalyze a specific reaction in hormonal synthesis or energy production.
Nutrient deficiencies dismantle the biochemical machinery required for hormonal therapies to succeed, turning potential solutions into metabolic stressors.
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