In these instances, the protein portion of the enzymes is called the apoenzyme. Three kinds of cofactors may be identified: prosthetic groups, co-enzymes and metal ions.
NTA tests your understanding of enzyme structure by distinguishing the protein part (apoenzyme) from non-protein helper molecules (cofactors). Students often confuse holoenzyme with apoenzyme—remember that holoenzyme = apoenzyme + cofactor (the complete, active enzyme), while apoenzyme alone is inactive. Cofactors come in three types: prosthetic groups (tightly bound), coenzymes (loosely bound, often vitamins), and metal ions (like Mg²⁺, Zn²⁺). The key to NEET success: know that an enzyme needs both parts to function—the protein structure provides specificity, while cofactors provide catalytic power.
Consider the following statements. (A) Coenzyme or metal ion that is tightly bound to enzyme protein is called prosthetic group. (B) A complete catalytic active enzyme with its bound prosthetic group is called apoenzyme. Select the correct option: (NEET 2019)
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