Which of the following serves as catalysts and can help synthesize or break down compounds?

Enzymes are biological catalysts that accelerate chemical reactions in living organisms. They work by lowering the activation energy required for reactions to occur, allowing metabolic processes to proceed at a much faster rate than they would without the presence of these specialized proteins. Enzymes are highly specific, meaning each type of enzyme typically catalyzes a particular reaction or a set of closely related reactions.

Additionally, enzymes can facilitate both the synthesis of compounds—such as building macromolecules from smaller units—and the breakdown of compounds—allowing organisms to convert food into usable energy or to eliminate waste products. This essential function is crucial in various biological processes, including digestion, metabolism, and DNA replication, making enzymes vital for maintaining life.

Hormones, vitamins, and minerals have important roles in biological functions, but they do not act as catalysts. Hormones are signaling molecules that regulate physiological processes, vitamins are organic compounds that often act as cofactors or coenzymes but do not catalyze reactions themselves, and minerals can serve as cofactors in enzyme activity but are not catalysts on their own.