Final answer:
The question pertains to metals and vitamins that are cofactors or coenzymes crucial for the functionality of various enzymes. These include zinc, molybdenum, magnesium, selenium, copper, and vitamin C, all of which participate in essential biochemical processes such as metabolism and antioxidant defense.
Step-by-step explanation:
The substances being referenced in the question are metals and vitamins that act as cofactors or coenzymes for various enzymes in the body. These cofactors are essential for the proper functioning of these enzymes, which participate in critical biochemical pathways such as glycolysis, the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, and antioxidant defense mechanisms. Some examples include zinc, which is a cofactor for liver alcohol dehydrogenase and carboxypeptidase, and molybdenum, which is necessary for enzymes like sulfite oxidase. Others include magnesium, which is crucial for the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex in aerobic metabolism, and selenium, which is needed for glutathione peroxidase. Additionally, copper is a necessary component of redox enzymes like cytochrome c oxidase and superoxide dismutase. Vitamin C is also critical as it acts as an antioxidant and is involved in the synthesis of collagen.