Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which of the following best explains why an apoenzyme that loses its coenzyme subunit becomes non-functional?
A
The coenzyme denatures the apoenzyme, making it inactive.
B
The coenzyme acts as a competitive inhibitor, preventing substrate binding.
C
The coenzyme is required for the apoenzyme to achieve its active conformation and catalytic activity.
D
The apoenzyme can function independently without any cofactor or coenzyme.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the key terms: An apoenzyme is the protein portion of an enzyme that requires a cofactor or coenzyme to become active. A coenzyme is a non-protein organic molecule that assists enzymes in catalyzing reactions.
Recognize the relationship between apoenzymes and coenzymes: Apoenzymes are inactive on their own and require the binding of a coenzyme to achieve their active conformation and catalytic activity.
Analyze the options provided: The first option suggests denaturation, which is incorrect because coenzymes do not denature apoenzymes. The second option mentions competitive inhibition, which is unrelated to the role of coenzymes. The fourth option claims that apoenzymes can function independently, which contradicts the definition of an apoenzyme.
Focus on the correct explanation: The coenzyme is essential for the apoenzyme to achieve its proper three-dimensional structure and catalytic function. Without the coenzyme, the apoenzyme remains inactive.
Conclude that the correct answer is: 'The coenzyme is required for the apoenzyme to achieve its active conformation and catalytic activity,' as this aligns with the biochemical role of coenzymes in enzyme activation.