Zinc, an essential trace element for most organisms, is present in the active site of the enzyme carboxypeptidase. The zinc most likely functions as

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Zinc serves as a cofactor necessary for enzyme activity in carboxypeptidase. It plays a crucial role in the enzyme's catalytic mechanism by coordinating with the substrate and stabilizing the transition state during the peptide bond hydrolysis reaction. Zinc does not inhibit the enzyme's activity or compete with the substrate, nor is it derived from a vitamin or an allosteric activator.

Zinc, an Essential Trace Element for Most Organisms, Is Present