Which of the following can be cofactors? organic molecules inorganic molecules anions cations
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
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Correct Answer:
✅ All of the above — organic molecules, inorganic molecules, anions, and cations — can be cofactors.
Explanation
Cofactors are non-protein chemical compounds that assist enzymes during the catalysis of reactions. They are essential for the biological activity of many enzymes and can come in various forms, which is why all the options listed — organic molecules, inorganic molecules, anions, and cations — can function as cofactors.
- Organic Molecules:
These cofactors are typically called coenzymes. They are carbon-containing molecules that often act as carriers of electrons, atoms, or functional groups. Examples include NAD⁺, FAD, and coenzyme A. Many coenzymes are derived from vitamins — for instance, NAD⁺ comes from niacin (vitamin B₃). - Inorganic Molecules:
Some cofactors are simple inorganic substances, often metal ions, but they can also be non-metal inorganic ions. For example, molybdenum or selenium (in the form of selenocysteine) can serve as cofactors in various enzymatic processes. - Cations:
Positively charged ions like Mg²⁺, Fe²⁺, Zn²⁺, and Ca²⁺ are common cofactors. For example, Mg²⁺ is required by DNA polymerase to help stabilize the negative charges on DNA and facilitate nucleotide binding during DNA synthesis. - Anions:
Though less common, negatively charged ions can also act as cofactors. For instance, chloride ions (Cl⁻) are essential for the activity of some enzymes like amylase, and phosphate ions (PO₄³⁻) can play structural or catalytic roles in various biochemical processes.
In summary, cofactors can be organic or inorganic, and they may exist as anions or cations, depending on the enzyme’s specific requirements. The presence of the right cofactor is often crucial for the enzyme’s structure and its ability to catalyze reactions efficiently
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