Biomolecules Question 56
56. Prosthetic groups differ from co-enzymes in that-
[2019, Odisa]
(a) They can serve as co-factors in a number of enzyme - catalysed reactions.
(b) They require metal ions for their activity.
(c) They (prosthetic groups) are tightly bound to apoenzymes.
(d) Their association with apoenzymes is transient.
Show Answer
Answer : c
Hints & Solutions
(c) Prosthetic groups are non-peptide (nonprotein) compounds that mostly attach to proteins and assist them in different ways. They can be inorganic (like metals) or organic (carbon-containing). Prosthetic groups are tightly bound to the apoenzyme but coenzymes associated with the apoenzyme last for a short period of time i.e. transiently. Prosthetic groups assist cellular function by participating in cellular respiration and fatty acid synthesis. When bound to proteins, prosthetic groups are called holoproteins. Some examples of prosthetic groups are heme, biotin, flavin, iron sulphides, copper and ubiquinone.
