Question

Which of these best describes a coenzyme?

• A. An inorganic molecule that reduces enzyme activity
• B. An organic molecule that reduces enzyme activity
• C. An inorganic molecule that enhances enzyme activity
• D. An organic molecule that enhances enzyme activity
• E. An organic molecule that competes for the active site of an enzyme

Answer 1

The correct option is D An organic molecule that enhances enzyme activity

Coenzyme is an organic compound which binds to apoenzyme (the proteinaceous part of enzyme) transiently. The binding usually occurs during catalysis of reaction and act in different directions. Apoenzyme along with the coenzyme forms holoenzyme which is the active form of enzyme. Thus, binding of apoenzyme enhances the enzymatic activity. Hence, apoenzyme is an organic molecule that enhances the enzyme activity.

So, the correct answer is 'An organic molecule that enhances enzyme activity' .