title: [Ni]
abstract: How do [NiFe] hydrogenases activate H(2)? Hydrogenases are key enzymes in the biological hydrogen and energy metabolism; the mechanism of H(2) activation, however, is unclarified. In particular, the oxidation states of the metals involved are discussed controversially. The title complex demonstrates that a distorted diamagnetic Ni(II) center and thiolate donors are sufficient (see picture) to catalyze the key reaction of hydrogenases, the H(2) heterolysis.
authors.affiliation: Institut für Anorganische Chemie Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg Egerlandstrasse 1, 91058 Erlangen (Germany).
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Sellmann
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Geipel
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Moll