Hydrogenase Enzymes and Their Synthetic Models: The Role of Metal Hydrides

Hydrogenase enzymes efficiently process H2 and protons at organometallic FeFe, NiFe, or Fe active sites. Synthetic modeling of the many H2ase states has provided insight into H2ase structure and mechanism, as well as afforded catalysts for the H2 energy vector. Particularly important are hydride-bearing states, with synthetic hydride analogues now known for each hydrogenase class. These hydrides are typically prepared by protonation of low-valent cores. Examples of FeFe and NiFe hydrides derived from H2 have also been prepared. Such chemistry is more developed than mimicry of the redox-inactive monoFe enzyme, although functional models of the latter are now emerging. Advances in physical and theoretical…

• IF
  Institute for Basic Science

  Award: IBS-R019-D1
• NI
  National Institute of General Medical Sciences

  Awards: GM061153, GM-65440
• DO
  Division of Graduate Education

  Award: DGE-1144245
• DO
  Division of Chemistry

  Award: CHE-13-61293