Zinc, an essential trace element for most organisms, is present in the active site of the enzyme carboxypeptidase. The zinc most likely functions as ________.
A) a competitive inhibitor of the enzyme
B) a noncompetitive inhibitor of the enzyme
C) an allosteric activator of the enzyme
D) a cofactor necessary for enzyme activity
E) a coenzyme derived from a vitamin

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Zinc is a type of cofactor that is essential for the activity of carboxypeptidase. It acts as a catalytic site for the enzyme and is involved in binding and positioning substrates to facilitate their conversion. It is not an inhibitor or activator of the enzyme but is necessary for its function.

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