cofactor

[/ˈkoʊfæktər/]
nounmasculinepl: cofactors
cofator
1. A non-protein chemical compound or metallic ion that is required for the activity of an enzyme
Zinc is an important cofactor for many enzymatic reactions in the body.
O zinco é um cofator importante para muitas reações enzimáticas no corpo.
2. In mathematics, the minor of an element in a determinant with its appropriate sign
To calculate the determinant, you must find the cofactor of each element.
Para calcular o determinante, você deve encontrar o cofator de cada elemento.
3. A person or entity that acts jointly with another in accomplishing a purpose
The two researchers were cofactors in the discovery of the new compound.
Os dois pesquisadores foram cofatores na descoberta do novo composto.
This is a specialized scientific term used consistently across English and Portuguese scientific communities. It appears predominantly in academic, medical, and research contexts rather than in everyday conversation. The term is essential in biochemistry curricula in both Brazilian and American universities.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
coenzymeprosthetic grouphelper moleculeauxiliary factor

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
cofator
Standard term used in biochemistry and mathematics contexts
Portugal
cofator
Same usage as in Brazil; technical term remains consistent
Scientific English
cofactor
Widely used in biochemistry, molecular biology, and mathematics literature

Related Words

enzymecoenzymeprosthetic groupapoenzymeholoenzymecatalystdeterminant

Related Idioms & Phrases

cofactor activity
cofactor binding
cofactor deficiency
cofactor requirement
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