Nitrogenase
Enzyme Complex
Nitrogen Fixation

Nitrogen fixation is required for all forms of life, with nitrogen being essential for the biosynthesis of molecules (nucleotides, amino acids).

Nitrogen's role in enzyme cofactors is crucial, primarily in the nitrogenase enzyme complex, where the unique Iron-Molybdenum Cofactor (FeMoCo) uses nitrogen atoms (often as a carbide core and labile sulfurs) to bind and reduce atmospheric N2 to ammonia, a process vital for life, with other cofactors like Fe-S clusters facilitating electron transfer, showing nitrogen is both a substrate component and integral to cofactor structure and function, not just amino acids.

Nitrogen's Broader Role in Enzyme Function

Building Blocks: Nitrogen is fundamental for amino acids, the building blocks of all proteins, including enzymes.

Coenzymes: Many organic cofactors (coenzymes) incorporate nitrogen, such as NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), which is vital for hydride (hydrogen ion) transfer in numerous metabolic reactions.

Nitrogen isn't just a nutrient for making enzymes; it's an integral structural and functional element within specific enzyme cofactors, enabling crucial biochemical processes.