What are cofactors primarily composed of?

Cofactors are substances that assist enzymes in their catalytic activity, and they can be composed of both organic molecules and inorganic elements. Organic cofactors are often derived from vitamins and are crucial for various enzymatic reactions, while inorganic cofactors can consist of metal ions such as zinc, iron, or magnesium, which play critical roles in stabilizing enzyme structures or participating in the catalytic process.

This dual composition highlights the versatility of cofactors in biochemical reactions. They can either function alone or work in conjunction with organic coenzymes to enhance enzyme function. The inclusion of both organic and inorganic components allows cofactors to fulfill a wide range of roles in metabolism and other physiological processes.