[Ni]
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.
Sellmann
D
Institut für Anorganische Chemie Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg Egerlandstrasse 1, 91058 Erlangen (Germany).
Geipel
F
Moll
M