Coenzyme vs Cofactor – Difference Between Coenzyme and Cofactor
The difference between coenzyme and cofactor is given below in the tabular form:
|
Feature |
Coenzyme |
Cofactor |
|
Other Names |
Coenzyme is additionally referred to as a Co-substrate and secondary substrate. |
A cofactor is additionally referred to as a helper molecule or an accessory molecule. |
|
Chemical Nature |
Coenzymes are the organic molecule |
Both organic and inorganic substances could serve as cofactors. |
|
Types |
Coenzyme is a type of cofactor |
Both coenzyme and prosthetic groups are two types of cofactors. |
|
Binding |
They are loosely bound with an enzyme |
They are tightly bound with an enzyme |
| Role |
Coenzymes act as carriers and molecule substrates to the enzymes. |
Cofactors increase the rate of the reaction that is catalyzed by the relevant enzyme |
| Separation |
Coenzyme substrate easily separate because they are loosely bound to an enzyme |
Cofactor molecules are tightly bound with the enzyme and are not possible to remove without denaturation |
| Example |
NAD, NADP, etc. |
Metal ions like Zinc, Copper, Cobalt, Molybdenum, etc. |
Difference Between Cofactor And Coenzyme
The difference between cofactor and coenzyme lies in their composition and role in enzymatic reactions. While cofactors can be either inorganic ions or organic molecules, coenzymes are specifically organic molecules that assist enzymes by carrying chemical groups or electrons.
In this article, we will cover the difference between cofactors and co-enzymes.
Difference Between Cofactor And Coenzyme
Table of Content
- Coenzyme Meaning
- Cofactor Meaning
- Coenzyme vs Cofactor – Difference Between Coenzyme and Cofactor
- Similarities Between Cofactor And Coenzyme
- Conclusion – Difference Between Cofactor And Coenzyme
- Other Related Articles on Differences
- FAQs on the Difference Between Cofactor And Coenzyme
Contact Us