Ni(NHPnPr3)(`S3')], the First Nickel Thiolate Complex Modeling the Nickel Cysteinate Site and Reactivity of [NiFe] Hydrogenase

Abstract

How do [NiFe] hydrogenases activate H2? Hydrogenases are key enzymes in the biological hydrogen and energy metabolism; the mechanism of H2 activation, however, is unclarified. In particular, the oxidation states of the metals involved are discussed controversially. The title complex demonstrates that a distorted diamagnetic NiII center and thiolate donors are sufficient (see picture) to catalyze the key reaction of hydrogenases, the H2 heterolysis.