Final answer:
The cofactor that functions as an acid-base catalyst in the glycogen phosphorylase reaction is pyridoxal phosphate (Option C), which is a form of vitamin B6.
Step-by-step explanation:
The cofactor that functions as an acid-base catalyst in the glycogen phosphorylase reaction, donating a proton to inorganic phosphate, is pyridoxal phosphate (Option C).
Pyridoxal phosphate is a form of vitamin B6 and acts as a coenzyme, helping enzymes like glycogen phosphorylase to carry out their functions. It plays a crucial role in the breakdown of glycogen, a stored form of glucose, by catalyzing the transfer of a phosphate group between different molecules.
This process involves the donation of a proton from pyridoxal phosphate to facilitate the reaction, allowing for the conversion of glycogen into glucose for energy production.