Enzymes are well-known as highly effective and efficient catalysts of a
wide variety of processes characterized by high selectivity and
activity. Additionally, enzymes may reduce the number of reaction steps
and quantities of hazardous solvents needed and thus make a process more
inexpensive and environmentally friendly. Many mineral elements are
essential constituents of enzymes regulate a variety of physiologic
processes.
Sulfur is used in building amino acids, proteins, vitamins, enzymes and
chlorophyll. It gives flavor to many crops. Magnesium is at the core of
chlorophyll and necessary for the function of enzymes, and to produce
carbohydrates, sugars and fats.
Calcium activates enzymes, influences water movement, critical for cell
communication. Glutathione peroxidase contains selenium that converts
hydrogen peroxide to water.
Iron also serves as a cofactor to enzymes in oxidation/reduction
reactions (i.e., accepts or donates electrons). These reactions are
vital to cells’ energy metabolism.
Iron is necessary for Catalase (cytosol), an enzyme (primarily in liver)
that converts hydrogen peroxide to water. Manganese involved in enzyme
activity for photosynthesis, respiration and nitrogen metabolism.
Zinc is a component in enzymes and a cofactor in plant growth hormones,
facilitates carbohydrate metabolism, protein synthesis and stem growth.
Zinc is a catalyst for about 100 enzymes.
Many enzymes and the B-vitamins become active only when a phosphate group is attached.
Copper acts as a core to enzymes is used in systems that create carbohydrates and proteins.
Copper is a constituent of several enzymes. Copper-dependent enzymes
transport iron and load it into hemoglobin, a protein that carries
oxygen through the blood. Copper-dependent enzymes release energy from
glucose; provide a natural defense against free radicals that damage the
body.
Molybdenum used in enzymes that reduce nitrates to ammonia. Without it protein synthesis is blocked and growth ceases.
Several metalloenzymes which include glutathione peroxidase (Se),
catalase (Fe), and superoxide dismutase (Cu, Zn, and Mn) are critical in
protecting the internal cellular constituents from oxidative damage.
Only when these metals are delivered in the diet in sufficient amounts
can the animal body synthesize these antioxidant enzymes. In contrast,
deficiency of those elements causes oxidative stress and damage to
biological molecules and membranes.
Minerals are essential constituents for enzymes
