Question

Why are cofactors required for some enzymatic reactions?

Short answer

Cofactors are required for oxidation-reduction reaction and group transfer processes which are not facilitated by functional groups of proteins.

Step-by-step solution

Cofactors

Cofactors are organic molecules which make enzymes more efficient and also referred to as enzyme chemical teeth.

Enzymatic reaction and requirement of cofactors

The functional groups of proteins are less suitable for many reactions including oxidation-reduction reaction and group transfer process. For such reactions to be carried out, cofactors are required.

These can either be metal ions which are required in trace amount. Examples are zinc Zn²⁺ and cadmium Cd²⁺.They can also be organic molecules which are known as coenzymes.