Cofactor is a non-protein chemical compound that is required for the enzyme to perform a function.
This co-factor may be a metallic ion or any chemical compound which helps in enzyme activity.
Cofactors are also known as helper molecules.
Two cofactors found in cells are as follows:
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP): This acts as a reducing agent in the photosynthesis that occurs in plants and also plays a major role in the Calvin cycle.
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+): This is used in cellular respiration where it helps in the conversion of food into energy also in maintaining DNA structure.