Question

Non-protein part of holoenzyme is
A. Zymogen
B. Cofactor
C. Fatty acid
D. None of the above

Answer 1

It is a non-protein organic compound or metallic ions that are essential for the activity of the enzyme as a catalyst. They are also known as helper molecules that assist the protein part in biochemical transformations.

Complete answer:
An enzyme is a substance in living organisms that act as a catalyst. It helps in regulating the rate of chemical reactions without itself being altered in the process. Almost all biological processes within the living organisms are chemical reactions and are regulated by enzymes. They also help in breaking down complex large molecules such as carbohydrates, fats, proteins are converted into smaller molecules. They majorly act upon a substrate and are converted into different molecules known as products. Chemical bonds are formed and destroyed over many intermediate reactions. The enzyme binds to the substrate at a special area known as an active site. The protein portion of the enzyme is known as an apoenzyme. An organic or inorganic cofactor helps in the activation of the enzyme. It is a non-protein portion of an enzyme. Organic cofactors such as metal ions are known as a coenzyme. The tightly bound coenzymes are known as prosthetic groups.

Hence, the correct answer is option B.

Note: The activity of an enzyme is affected by many factors which regulate the rate of a reaction. Factors are temperature, pH, enzyme concentration, substrate concentration, etc. An enzyme can have only the active site or both active and the regulatory site.