Definition of coenzyme - What it is, Meaning and Concept

The coenzymes are components of the enzymes .These are non-protein organic substances that participate in reactions catalyzed by enzymes.

An enzyme, meanwhile, is a protein-like molecule with the ability to catalyze chemical reactions , always within the framework of thermodynamics; in other words, a chemical reaction becomes kinetically favorable, that is, it causes it to proceed at a higher speed.The action of enzymes takes place once they meet the substrates, molecules that become "products."

A coenzyme is a cofactor : a molecule that is essential in the activities that enzymes develop.These non-protein cofactors are linked to the apoenzymes (protein) to form holoenzymes .

Coenzymes undergo modifications within the framework of chemical reactions .They can yield or accept functional groups or electrons , for example, which pass from one enzyme to another.

There are coenzymes that maintain a permanent relationship with the enzyme.Others, on the other hand, only experience a sporadic union.The link begins when a coenzyme is coupled to an enzyme, which is responsible for capturing its substrate.The enzyme then transfers electrons that the coenzyme receives.Finally, the already reduced coenzyme can be released from the enzyme and yields its electrons, returning to its initial state.

It is important to keep in mind that not all coenzymes accept the same types of atoms .They can receive acetyl groups, hydrogen, aminos or other classes according to each case.As for the enzymes to which which adhere, there are no restrictions: the same coenzyme can bind to different enzymes.

The mononucleotide flavin ( FMN ) is a coenzyme.This biomolecule is synthesized by an enzyme called riboflavin kinase . FMN is an oxidizing agent that is involved in the transfer of one or two electrons.

The ubiquinone or coenzyme Q10 , meanwhile, is largely found in the equatorial cells.This coenzyme acts in aerobic cellular respiration and allows to produce energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate.

In recent years, the importance of coenzyme Q10 has grown considerably, as the media and doctors have begun to recommend it as a nutritional complement to treat various diseases , such as high blood pressure, gingivitis, some heart disorders and certain neurodegenerative problems.

It is important to note that this nutrient is found throughout the body, although in special can be seen in the liver, pancreas, kidneys and heart.To obtain coenzyme Q10, one of the options is to include it in our diet.

With respect to the effects of this coenzyme in our body, we can highlight its antioxidant action, similar to what vitamin E provides us although with a much greater effectiveness.In addition, it can generate energy to cellular level, which is why the anomalous feeling of fatigue is usually related to the lack of coenzyme Q10.

Another function of this nutrient is that it helps to oxygenate the organs by participating in the respiration of cells .All this makes it a highly recommended supplement to strengthen the system immune and cardiovascular, among many other advantages it offers us.

With the passing of the years, coenzyme Q10 is depleted, and this explains that those who experience their deficit most often are the elderly.On the other hand, there are certain factors that they can accentuate its decrease: tobacco abuse, food that does not include it in sufficient proportions, deficiency of the organism that prevents its production in adequate quantities, stress and candidiasis.

To ensure that we have sufficient values, it is recommended to include in the diet whole grain cereal, vegetable oils, nuts, spinach, carrots, cauliflower, broccoli and wheat germ, among other plant products.