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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes how cofactors and coenzymes affect the function of enzymes?
A
They are structural components of the enzyme's primary sequence.
B
They are competitive inhibitors that decrease the enzyme's affinity for its substrate.
C
They bind to enzymes and are essential for the enzyme's catalytic activity.
D
They permanently inhibit enzyme activity by binding to the active site.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the role of cofactors and coenzymes in enzymatic reactions. Cofactors are non-protein molecules or ions that assist enzymes in performing their catalytic activity. Coenzymes are a specific type of cofactor, often organic molecules, that bind temporarily or permanently to the enzyme to facilitate the reaction.
Step 2: Analyze the options provided. The first option states that cofactors and coenzymes are structural components of the enzyme's primary sequence. This is incorrect because cofactors and coenzymes are not part of the enzyme's amino acid sequence; they are separate molecules or ions.
Step 3: Evaluate the second option, which claims that cofactors and coenzymes are competitive inhibitors that decrease the enzyme's affinity for its substrate. This is incorrect because cofactors and coenzymes do not inhibit enzyme activity; instead, they enhance or enable the enzyme's catalytic function.
Step 4: Consider the third option, which states that cofactors and coenzymes bind to enzymes and are essential for the enzyme's catalytic activity. This is correct because cofactors and coenzymes often interact with the enzyme to stabilize the transition state or participate directly in the chemical reaction.
Step 5: Review the fourth option, which suggests that cofactors and coenzymes permanently inhibit enzyme activity by binding to the active site. This is incorrect because cofactors and coenzymes do not inhibit enzymes; they are necessary for the enzyme's function and often bind to specific sites other than the active site.