coenzyme

[ koh-en-zahym ]

noun

, Biochemistry.

1. a molecule that provides the transfer site for biochemical reactions catalyzed by an enzyme.

coenzyme

/ kəʊˈɛnzaɪm /

noun

1. biochem a nonprotein organic molecule that forms a complex with certain enzymes and is essential for their activity See also apoenzyme

coenzyme

/ kō-ĕn′zīm′ /

1. A nonprotein organic substance that usually contains a vitamin or mineral and combines with a specific protein, called an apoenzyme , to form an active enzyme system.

Other Words From

• co·en·zy·mat·ic [koh-en-zahy-, mat, -ik, -zi-], adjective
• co·enzy·mati·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of coenzyme¹

1905–10; < German Ko-enzym; co-, enzyme

Example Sentences

My understanding is that European doctors often prescribe coenzyme Q10 along with statins.

From Seattle Times

Once taken into cells, it is converted into a molecule called coenzyme A, which can then be used in lots of metabolic pathways.

From Science Daily

A: Our bodies actually make coenzyme Q10, which is critical for the energy factories in the cells called mitochondria.

From Seattle Times

Instead, some suggest that their patients take vitamins or supplements such as riboflavin, magnesium and coenzyme Q10, which have essentially no risk and might help on their own or through the pill-taking effect.

From Nature

Usually, it becomes linked to the molecule coenzyme A to form methylmalonyl-CoA, and is converted to succinyl-CoA in a reaction that involves vitamin B12 as a cofactor.

From Nature