A small, non-protein organic molecule that is absolutely necessary for an enzyme to catalyze a specific biochemical reaction within the body. Coenzymes function as transient carriers of functional groups, electrons, or atoms, effectively bridging the gap between substrates and the active site of the enzyme. They are often derived from essential dietary vitamins and are indispensable for numerous metabolic and hormonal synthesis pathways.
Origin
The term is a combination of the prefix “co-,” meaning jointly or together, and “enzyme,” which refers to the catalytic protein. This etymology highlights its role as a necessary helper molecule that works in concert with the main enzyme. The discovery of coenzymes in the early 20th century was pivotal in understanding the molecular basis of vitamin function and metabolic processes.
Mechanism
A coenzyme operates by binding to the apoenzyme, the inactive protein component, to form the complete, catalytically active holoenzyme complex. For example, coenzymes derived from B vitamins, like NAD+ or FAD, are crucial electron carriers in the Krebs cycle and oxidative phosphorylation, processes vital for cellular energy production. In hormonal health, coenzymes are directly involved in the enzymatic steps that convert precursor molecules into active steroid hormones and their subsequent metabolic clearance.
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