coenzyme

American  

[koh-en-zahym] / koʊˈɛn zaɪm /

noun

Biochemistry.

1. a molecule that provides the transfer site for biochemical reactions catalyzed by an enzyme.

---

coenzyme British  

/ kəʊˈɛnzaɪm /

noun

1. biochem a nonprotein organic molecule that forms a complex with certain enzymes and is essential for their activity See also apoenzyme

---

coenzyme Scientific  

/ kō-ĕn′zīm′ /

1. A nonprotein organic substance that usually contains a vitamin or mineral and combines with a specific protein, called an apoenzyme, to form an active enzyme system.

---

Other Word Forms

• coenzymatic
  adjective
• coenzymatically
  adverb

Etymology

Origin of coenzyme

1905–10; < German Ko-enzym; see co-, enzyme

Compare meaning

How does coenzyme compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• cofactor vs. coenzyme

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

coenzyme

Small randomized trials suggest that high doses of vitamins C and D, coenzyme Q10, magnesium, and creatine-glucose blends can improve cellular energy production and blood vessel function.

From Science Daily ● Jan. 8, 2026

My understanding is that European doctors often prescribe coenzyme Q10 along with statins.

From Seattle Times ● Apr. 10, 2024

Vitamin C is a coenzyme for multiple enzymes that take part in building the important connective tissue component, collagen.

From Textbooks ● Jun. 9, 2022

He was in the bottom 20% of the population for coenzyme q-10, a crucial catalyst for energy production.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 30, 2019

The best known example of a coenzyme in plant tissues is in connection with the activity of the zymase of yeast cells.

From The Chemistry of Plant Life by Thatcher, Roscoe Wilfred