Pyridine nucleotide coenzymes in biology

Before we dive into the specifics of pyridine nucleotide coenzymes, let's understand the broader concept of coenzymes. In biological systems, enzymes act as catalysts, accelerating chemical reactions. However, many enzymes require assistance to function optimally. This is where coenzymes come into play. Coenzymes are small, non-protein molecules that bind to enzymes, facilitating their activity. Pyridine nucleotide coenzymes, as the name suggests, belong to a class of coenzymes characterized by a pyridine ring in their structure.