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Metalloenzymes

Meaning

Metalloenzymes are a critical class of functional proteins that contain a tightly bound metal ion cofactor, such as zinc, copper, iron, or manganese, which is absolutely essential for their catalytic activity. These enzymes perform a vast array of vital biochemical reactions throughout the body, including those central to hormonal synthesis, neurotransmitter metabolism, and oxidative stress management. In the context of hormonal health, deficiencies in the requisite metal cofactors can directly impair the function of these enzymes, leading to downstream endocrine imbalances and metabolic dysfunction.