Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions in living organisms without being consumed in the process.

Coenzymes are organic, non-protein molecules that bind to enzymes and assist them in catalysing reactions, often derived from vitamins.

Enzymes and Coenzymes, Latest News

Q: How do enzymes and coenzymes differ?

Enzymes are proteins that directly catalyse reactions, while coenzymes assist enzymes by carrying chemical groups or electrons from one enzyme to another.

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Enzymes and Coenzymes Latest News

The recent issue of Nature highlighted biofortified rice varieties, a major breakthrough from CAS, Beijing, under the title ‘Gene-edited plants make the jump from farm to factory’.

About Enzymes

Enzymes are proteins that catalyse biochemical reactions, enhancing the efficiency of cellular metabolism.
Many enzymes require helper molecules for proper function. These are called cofactors, and when they are organic molecules, they are termed coenzymes.
Coenzymes bind to enzymes and support their activity, playing a crucial role in various metabolic pathways.

What is Coenzyme Q (Ubiquinone)?

Coenzyme Q (CoQ), also known as ubiquinone, is an organic antioxidant molecule with multiple isoprene units.
It exists in ten different forms, from CoQ1 to CoQ10, and is lipid-soluble but water-insoluble.
Coenzyme Q is vital for mitochondrial function and is found in every cell membrane, where it aids cellular energy production.

Significance of CoQ9 in Plants

CoQ9, containing nine isoprene units, is predominantly produced in cereal crops such as wheat, rice, oats, barley, corn, rye, and millet.
It is also found in bamboo, barley, and flowering plants like cinnamon, avocado, and pepper.

Importance of CoQ10 in Human Health

CoQ10 is an essential part of the mitochondrial electron transport chain, generating the majority of the body’s cellular energy.
Organs like the heart, which have high energy demands, contain high levels of CoQ10.
Although CoQ9 is available in staple foods, humans require additional CoQ10 due to genetic factors, aging, and neurological disorders.