Final answer:
Cofactors are essential non-protein molecules that assist enzymes, including inorganic metal ions and organic molecules known as coenzymes, often derived from vitamins like B vitamins.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cofactors are non-protein molecules that assist enzymes in catalyzing reactions. These can be inorganic metal ions such as zinc (Zn++), magnesium (Mg++), potassium (K+), and iron (Fe++) or small organic molecules. A subset of organic cofactors, known as coenzymes, are often derived from vitamins, such as the B vitamins. For instance, DNA polymerase, the enzyme responsible for assembling DNA molecules, requires a zinc ion as a cofactor for its activity. Similarly, vitamin C acts as a coenzyme for enzymes involved in synthesizing collagen. These cofactors and coenzymes are essential for the optimal conformation and function of their respective enzymes.