cofactors, or coenzymes, are helper molecules which are needed to make an enzyme work. they are not proteins, and may be organic or inorganic molecules. both types of molecules sometimes contain a metal ion at the centre, such as mg2+, cu2+, mn2+ or iron-sulphur clusters. this is because such ions may act as electron donors, and this is important in many reactions. the need of enzymes for various little helpers is the basic reason why animals, including ourselves, need trace elements and vitamins.