Proteins that speed up (catalyze) chemical reactions are called enzymes. Many enzymes are required for proper metabolic reactions in the body. One problem with using Cd2+ to replace Zn2+ in enzymes is that Cd2+ substitution can decrease or even eliminate enzymatic activity. Can you suggest a different metal ion that might replace Zn2+ in enzymes instead of Cd2+?
Co and Zn can fully replace each other, except perhaps for small individual requirements that are met by minute metal concentrations supplied as contaminants.
