What is the role of coenzymes in enzymatic reactions?

Coenzymes play a vital role in enzymatic reactions by functioning as non-protein molecules that assist enzymes in catalyzing reactions. While they are not part of the enzyme's primary structure, they are crucial for the enzyme's activity. Coenzymes often participate in the reaction by acting as carriers of electrons, atoms, or functional groups that are transferred during the reaction process. Their involvement is typically transient, meaning they can be used and regenerated in multiple reactions without being consumed, allowing enzymes to function effectively across various biochemical processes.

This flexibility in their function highlights that coenzymes are essential for many enzymes to achieve their catalytic roles; without coenzymes, certain enzymatic reactions could either not occur or would proceed at a much slower rate. Understanding this role is critical in biochemistry, as it reflects how various biochemical pathways depend on the cooperation between enzymes and their coenzymes to manage metabolic processes effectively.