Which of the following acts as a cofactor of carbonic anhydrase

The correct answer is Zn

Concept:

Cofactors are non-protein chemical compounds or metallic ions that are required for an enzyme's biological activity to occur. Cofactors can be broadly categorized into three main types:-

• Prosthetic Groups: Tightly bound, integral to the enzyme (Haem, FAD, Biotin).
• Coenzymes: Loosely bound, temporary carriers (NAD+, Coenzyme A, TPP).
• Metal Ions: Can be loosely or tightly bound, involved in structural and catalytic roles (Zinc, Magnesium, Iron).

Explanation:

• Carbonic anhydrase: This enzyme catalyzes the reversible conversion of carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O) into carbonic acid (H₂CO₃), which then dissociates into bicarbonate (HCO_3⁻) and protons (H⁺).
• It contains zinc (Zn²⁺) as a cofactor
• Cu (Copper):  Copper is a cofactor for other enzymes such as cytochrome c oxidase and superoxide dismutase.
• Fe (Iron): Iron is commonly found in enzymes such as catalase and hemoglobin, where it plays a role in oxygen transport and redox reactions.
• Mg (Magnesium): Magnesium often acts as a cofactor in enzymes involved in ATP-related reactions and DNA synthesis