The cofactor of the enzyme carboxypeptidase is?

The cofactor of the enzyme carboxypeptidase is zinc (Zn²⁺). Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions in living organisms. Many enzymes require a helper molecule called a cofactor. These cofactors may be metals or organic molecules. Carboxypeptidase, an important enzyme in digestion, requires zinc as its cofactor.

What is Carboxypeptidase?

Carboxypeptidase is an enzyme found in the pancreas. It helps break down proteins by removing amino acids one by one from the carboxyl end of polypeptide chains. Without this enzyme, protein digestion in humans and animals would be incomplete.

Role of Zinc as a Cofactor

• Structural Role: Zinc helps the enzyme maintain its proper three-dimensional shape.
• Catalytic Role: Zinc directly participates in the breaking of peptide bonds.
• Stabilization: Zinc stabilizes the reaction process and makes the enzyme more efficient.

Importance in Human Body

Carboxypeptidase plays a key role in protein digestion. Without zinc, this enzyme cannot function, leading to poor protein metabolism. This is why zinc is considered an essential trace mineral for humans.

Other Examples of Metal Cofactors

• Iron in hemoglobin and catalase.
• Magnesium in DNA polymerase and chlorophyll.
• Copper in cytochrome oxidase.