NEETBotanyBiomolecules (B)
What is the difference between prosthetic groups and other cofactors?
Options
- AProsthetic groups are organic compounds while other cofactors are not.
- BProsthetic groups are not tightly bound to the apoenzyme while other cofactors are.
- CProsthetic groups are not a part of the active site of the enzyme while other cofactors are.
- DProsthetic groups are tightly bound to the apoenzyme while other cofactors are not.
Correct answer
D. Prosthetic groups are tightly bound to the apoenzyme while other cofactors are not.
Step-by-step solution
Prosthetic groups are organic compounds and are distinguished from other cofactors in that they are tightly bound to the apoenzyme. For example, in peroxidase and catalase, which catalyze the breakdown of hydrogen peroxide to water and oxygen, haem is the prosthetic group and it is a part of the active site of the enzyme.