Principles of Biochemistry Volume 1 - A. Lehninger 1985

Biomolecules
Vitamins and Trace Elements: Their Role in Enzyme Function

The catalytic activity of many Enzymes requires specific non-protein Cofactors. These cofactors can be Organic compounds (in which case they are termed Coenzymes) or inorganic substances, such as Metal Ions. In some enzymes, cofactors participate directly in the catalytic process, whereas in others they act as intermediate carriers of specific functional groups from the substrate molecule to the enzyme. Although present in Cells in extremely minute amounts, such cofactors are essential for the action of numerous enzymes and therefore play a vital role in cellular METABOLISM.

In this chapter, we examine the chemical nature and Functions of these substances. We will see that many coenzymes are derived from Vitamins—organic compounds that must be present in the diet of humans and most animals in small amounts to maintain normal growth and physiological function. The discovery of VITAMINS AND THEIR crucial role in the Prevention and Treatment of nutritional deficiency diseases has been one of biochemistry's most valuable contributions to medicine and public health. This topic will be discussed in detail in Chapter 26. Equally significant as an achievement of experimental science is the elucidation of The Role of vitamins and essential inorganic substances in Enzymatic Catalysis, which revealed that human health depends on proper Nutrition.

This chapter compiles information on the structures of vitamins, coenzymes, and certain essential dietary minerals, as well as their functions as cofactors for various enzymes; consequently, it serves as an Introduction to subsequent chapters dealing with cellular metabolism. We will revisit coenzymes and inorganic substances in those chapters to explain in detail how deficiencies in vitamins and mineral salts can disrupt specific metabolic pathways. Furthermore, in Chapter 26, we will examine vitamins and Trace Elements from another perspective, namely their role in Human nutrition.



Last update: 06/08/2026

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