prosthetic group

views updated May 14 2018

prosthetic group A non-protein component of a conjugated protein, or the cofactor of an enzyme to which it is bound so tightly that it cannot be removed by dialysis.

A Dictionary of Zoology MICHAEL ALLABY

prosthetic group

views updated May 17 2018

prosthetic group The non-protein component of a conjugated protein, or the cofactor of an enzyme to which it is bound so tightly that it cannot be removed by dialysis.

A Dictionary of Plant Sciences MICHAEL ALLABY

prosthetic group

views updated May 14 2018

prosthetic group Non‐protein part of an enzyme molecule; either a coenzyme or a metal ion. Essential for catalytic activity. The enzyme protein without its prosthetic group is the apo‐enzyme and is catalytically inactive. With the prosthetic group, it is known as the holo‐enzyme. See also enzyme activation assays.

A Dictionary of Food and Nutrition DAVID A. BENDER

prosthetic group

views updated Jun 11 2018

prosthetic group A tightly bound nonpeptide inorganic or organic component of a protein. Prosthetic groups may be lipids, carbohydrates, metal ions, phosphate groups, etc. Some coenzymes are more correctly regarded as prosthetic groups.

A Dictionary of Biology