Principles of Biochemistry Volume 1 - A. Lehninger 1985

Biomolecules
Vitamins and trace elements: their role in enzyme functioning
Zinc is essential for the activity of many enzymes

Zn2+ ions are essential components of nearly a hundred different Enzymes. They are present in many NAD- and NADP-dependent dehydrogenases—enzymes that catalyze The transfer of hydride ions from substrate molecules to the Coenzymes NAD+ and NADP+. For instance, the NAD-dependent enzyme Liver Alcohol dehydrogenase, which catalyzes the dehydrogenation of ethanol to form acetaldehyde, contains two Zn2+ ions that apparently bind the coenzyme NAD+ to the Active Site of the enzyme. Zn2+ ions are also constituents of DNA and RNA Polymerases and thus participate in crucial enzymatic reactions occurring during the Replication and METABOLISM/31.html">Transcription of Genetic information. Furthermore, Zn2+ ions are present in molecules of Carbonic anhydrase, which catalyzes the Hydration of CO2 to H2CO3, and the proteolytic enzyme carboxypeptidase, secreted into the Small Intestine. The hormone Insulin is stored as a zinc complex. Among the most fascinating Functions of zinc is its involvement in the perception of taste and smell by receptors in the Tongue and Nasal cavity.



Last update: 06/08/2026

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