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R H Holm

Publications and source records attributed to R H Holm.

At least 37 records · Page 2Linked to original sources

X-ray absorption spectroscopy of a structural analogue of the oxidized active sites in the sulfite oxidase enzyme family and related molybdenum(V) complexes.

X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) (edge and extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS)) has been applied to the characterization of three molybdenum(V,VI) monodithiolene complexes with unidentate coligands, [MoO(SC(6)H(2)-2,4,6-Pr(i)()(3))(2)(bdt)](-) (1), [MoOCl(SC(6)H(2)-2,4,6-Pr(i)(3))(bdt)](-) (2), and [MoO(2)(SC(6)H(2)-2,4,6-Pr(i)(3))(bdt)](-) (3) (bdt = benzene-1,2-dithiolate). These complexes are related to the active site in the xanthine oxidase and sulfite oxidase families and, as in the enzyme sites, bind monodentate thiolate. By comparison to the data of crystalline oxidized chicken sulfite oxidase, it is shown that complex 3, whose thiolate simulates binding by the highly conserved cysteine, is an accurate structural analogue of the oxidized site of this enzyme. Normalized edge spectra, EXAFS data, Fourier transforms, and GNXAS-based fit results are presented. As in earlier studies, this provides characterization of new analogue complexes by XAS to facilitate identification of related sites in proteins.

Animals↗

Vanadium-iron-sulfur clusters containing the cubane-type [VFe3S4] core unit: synthesis of a cluster with the topology of the PN cluster of nitrogenase.

A synthetic method affording a topological analogue of the electron-transfer P-cluster of nitrogenase (Fe(8)S(7)(mu(2)-S(Cys))(2)) in the P(N) state has been devised, based in part on our previous development of cubane-type VFe(3)S(4) clusters (Hauser, C.; Bill, E.; Holm, R. H. Inorg. Chem. 2002, 41, 1615-1624). The cluster [(Tp)VFe(3)S(4)Cl(3)](2-) (1) is converted to [(Tp)VFe(3)S(4)(PR(3))(3)](1+) (R = Et (2), Bu (3)) by reaction with R(3)P. The phosphine ligands are readily substituted, leading to [(Tp)VFe(3)S(4)(SR)(3)](2-) (R = Ph (4), H (5)). Reduction of 2 or 3 with cobaltocene produces the edge-bridged double cubanes [(Tp)(2)V(2)Fe(6)S(8)(PR(3))(4)] (R = Et (6), Bu (7)), which are readily converted to [(Tp)(2)V(2)Fe(6)S(8)(SPh)(4)](4-) (8). The structures of clusters 3-5 and 8 were proven crystallographically. Cluster 8 has the double-cubane structure previously shown for 6, in which two cubane units are bridged by two Fe-(mu(4)-S) bonds. (57)Fe isomer shifts are consistent with the formulation [VFe(2.33+)(3)S(4)](2+) for the single cubanes and the all-ferrous description 2[VFe(2+)(3)S(4)](1+) for the double cubanes. Reaction of 6 with 4 equiv of (Et(4)N)(HS) in acetonitrile results in the insertion of sulfide with concomitant structural rearrangement and the formation of [(Tp)(2)V(2)Fe(6)S(9)(SH)(2)](4-) (10), obtained in ca. 50% yield as the Et(4)N(+) salt. The cluster has C(2) symmetry, with two all-ferrous VFe(3)S(4) fragments bridged by a common mu(6)-S atom and two mu(2)-S atoms that simulate the bridging atoms in the two Fe-(mu(2)-S(Cys))-Fe bridges of the P(N) cluster. The bridge pattern V(2)Fe(6)(mu(2)-S)(2)(mu(3)-S)(6)(mu(6)-S) and cluster shape match those of the native cluster. A best-fit superposition of the cores of 10 and the P(N) cluster affords a weighted rms deviation in atom positions of 0.33 A. Cluster 10 and [(Tp)(2)Mo(2)Fe(6)S(9)(SH)(2)](3-), prepared by a related route (Zhang, Y.; Holm, R. H. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2003, 125, 3910-3920), demonstrate that the topology of the P(N) cluster can be achieved in molecular form in the absence of protein structure (Tp = tris(pyrazolyl)hydroborate).

Crystallography, X-Ray↗

Spectroscopic and photophysical properties of hexanuclear rhenium(III) chalcogenide clusters.

The electronic, vibrational, and excited-state properties of hexanuclear rhenium(III) chalcogenide clusters based on the [Re(6)(mu(3)-Q)(8)](2+) (Q = S, Se) core have been investigated by spectroscopic and theoretical methods. Ultraviolet or visible excitation of [Re(6)Q(8)](2+) clusters produces luminescence with ranges in maxima of 12 500-15 100 cm(-)(1), emission quantum yields of 1-24%, and emission lifetimes of 2.6-22.4 microseconds. Nonradiative decay rate constants and the luminescence maxima follow the trend predicted by the energy gap law (EGL). Examination of 24 clusters in solution and 14 in the solid phase establish that exocluster ligands engender the observed EGL behavior; clusters with oxygen- or nitrogen-based apical ligands achieve maximal quantum yields and the longest lifetimes. The excited-state decay mechanism was investigated by applying nonradiative decay models to temperature-dependent emission experiments. Solid-state Raman spectra were recorded to identify vibrational contributions to excited-state deactivation; spectral assignments were enabled by normal coordinate analysis afforded from Hartree-Fock and DFT calculations. Excited-state decay is interpreted with a model where normal modes largely centered on the [Re(6)Q(8)](2+) core induce nonradiative relaxation. Hartree-Fock and DFT calculations of the electronic structure of the hexarhenium family of compounds support such a model. These experimental and theoretical studies of [Re(6)Q(8)](2+) luminescence provide a framework for elaborating a variety of luminescence-based applications of the largest series of isoelectronic clusters yet discovered.

Journal Article↗

Synthesis of a molecular Mo2Fe6S9 cluster with the topology of the PN cluster of nitrogenase by rearrangement of an edge-bridged Mo2Fe6S8 double cubane.

The structures of the P cluster and cofactor cluster of nitrogenase are well-defined crystallographically. They have been obtained only by biosynthesis; their chemical synthesis remains a challenge. Synthetic routes are sought to the P cluster in the P(N) state in which two cuboidal Fe(3)S(3) units are connected by a mu(6)-S atom and two Fe-(mu(2)-S(Cys))-Fe bridges. A reaction scheme affording a Mo(2)Fe(6)S(9) cluster in molecular form having the topology of the P(N) cluster has been devised. Reaction of the single cubane [(Tp)MoFe(3)S(4)Cl(3)](1)(-) with PEt(3) gives [(Tp)MoFe(3)S(4)(PEt(3))(3)](1+) (2), which upon reduction with BH(4)(-) affords the edge-bridged all-ferrous double cubane [(Tp)(2)Mo(2)Fe(6)S(8)(PEt(3))(4)] (4) (Tp = tris(pyrazolylhydroborate(1-)). Treatment of 4 with 3 equiv of HS(-) produces [(Tp)(2)Mo(2)Fe(6)S(9)(SH)(2)](3)(-) (7) as the Et(4)N(+) salt in 86% yield. The structure of 7 is built of two (Tp)MoFe(3)(mu(3)-S)(3) cuboidal fragments bridged by two mu(2)-S atoms and one mu(6)-S atom in an arrangement of idealized C(2) symmetry. The cluster undergoes three one-electron oxidation reactions and is oxidatively cleaved by p-tolylthiol to [(Tp)MoFe(3)S(4)(S-p-tol)(3)](2)(-) and by weak acids to [(Tp)MoFe(3)S(4)(SH)(3)](2-). The cluster core of 7 has the bridging pattern [Mo(2)Fe(6)(mu(2)-S)(2)(mu(3)-S)(6)(mu(6)-S)](1+) with the probable charge distribution [Mo(3+)(2)Fe(2+)(5)Fe(3+)S(9)](1+). Cluster 7 is a topological analogue of the P(N) cluster but differs in having two heteroatoms and two Fe-(mu(2)-S)-Fe instead of two Fe-(mu(2)-S(Cys))-Fe bridges. A best-fit superposition of the two cluster cores affords a weighted rms deviation in atom positions of 0.38 A. Cluster 7 is the first molecular topological analogue of the P(N) cluster. This structure had been prepared previously only as a fragment of complex high-nuclearity Mo-Fe-S clusters.

Biomimetic Materials↗

Synthesis and reactions of cubane-type iron-sulfur-phosphine clusters, including soluble clusters of nuclearities 8 and 16.

A family of soluble, reduced iron-sulfur clusters with nuclearities 4, 8, and 16 having tertiary phosphine ligation and based on the Fe(4)S(4) cubane-type structural motif has been synthesized. The results of this investigation substantially extend and improve the results of our original work on iron-sulfur-phosphine clusters (Goh, C.; Segal, B. M.; Huang, J.; Long, J. R.; Holm, R. H. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 1996, 118, 11844). A general property of this cluster family is facile phosphine substitution. The clusters [Fe(4)S(4)(PR(3))(4)](+) are precursors to monosubstituted [Fe(4)S(4)(PR(3))(3)X] (X = Cl-, RS-), homoleptic [Fe(4)S(4)(SR)(4)](3-), and all-ferrous monocubanes [Fe(4)S(4)(PR(3))(4)] (R = Pr(i), Cy, Bu(t); generated in solution). In turn, [Fe(4)S(4)(PPr(i)()(3))(3)(SSiPh(3))] and [Fe(4)S(4)(PPr(i)(3))(4)] can be transformed into the dicubanes [Fe(8)S(8)(PPr(i)()(3))(4)(SSiPh(3))(2)] and [Fe(8)S(8)(PPr(i)((3))(6)], respectively. Further, the tetracubanes [Fe(16)S(16)(PR(3))(8)] are also accessible from [Fe(4)S(4)(PR(3))(4)] under different conditions. X-ray structures are described for [Fe(4)S(4)(PCy(3))(3)X] (X = Cl-, PhS-), [Fe(8)S(8)(PPr(i)(3))(4)(SSiPh(3))(2)], [Fe(8)S(8)(PPr(i)()(3))(6)], and [Fe(16)S(16)(PCy(3))(8)]. The monosubstituted clusters show different distortions of the [Fe(4)S(4)](+) cores from idealized cubic symmetry. The dicubanes possess edge-bridged double cubane structures with an Fe(2)(mu(4)-S)(2) bridge rhomb and idealized C(2)(h)() symmetry. The ready cleavage of these clusters into single cubanes is considered a probable consequence of strained bond angles at the mu(4)-S atoms. Tetracubanes contain four individual cubanes, each of which is implicated in two bridge rhombs so as to generate a cyclic structure of idealized D(4) symmetry. Redox properties and Mössbauer spectroscopic parameters are reported. The species [Fe(4)S(4)(PR(3))(4)] (in solution), [Fe(8)S(8)(PR(3))(6)], and [Fe(16)S(16)(PR(3))(8)] are the only synthetic all-ferrous clusters with tetrahedral iron sites that have been isolated. Their utility as precursors to other highly reduced iron-sulfur clusters is under investigation.

Azotobacter vinelandii↗

Determination of antiferromagnetic exchange coupling in the tetrahedral thiolate-bridged diferrous complex [Fe2(SEt)6]2-.

Protein-bound iron-sulfur clusters and their synthetic analogues are characterized by tetrahedral metal sites, multiple oxidation levels, and exchange coupling. The recent attainment of several all-ferrous protein clusters and the presence of sulfide- and thiolate-bridged sites in the all-ferrous state of the nitrogenase P-cluster provides an imperative for determination of exchange coupling between tetrahedral Fe(II) sites with sulfur bridges. The cluster in the previously reported compound (Et(4)N)(2)[Fe(2)(SEt)(6)] is centrosymmetric with distorted tetrahedral coordination and a planar Fe(2)(mu-SEt)(2) bridge unit. The compound is diamagnetic at 4.2 K, indicating antiferromagnetic coupling. The lower limit J > 80 cm(-)(1) (H = JS(1).S(2)) is obtained by Mössbauer spectroscopy. Analysis of magnetic susceptibility data affords J = 165 +/- 15 cm(-)(1). It is noteworthy that the J value of the diferrous pair obtained here is comparable to the J values reported for the mixed-valence state of plant-type Fe(2)S(2) ferredoxins. The near temperature independence of the quadrupole splitting (DeltaE(Q) = 3.25 mm/s at 4.2 K and 3.20 mm/s at 180 K) indicates that no excited orbital states are appreciably populated at temperatures less than 300 K. The paramagnetism arises solely from thermal population of the S = 1 state of the spin ladder. This work provides the only measure of antiferromagnetic coupling by Fe(II) pairs in a tetrahedral sulfur environment.

Catalysis↗

Rearrangement of symmetrical dicubane clusters into topological analogues of the P cluster of nitrogenase: nature's choice?

Reaction schemes have been developed that lead to clusters having the topology of the PN cluster of nitrogenase. The single cubane clusters [(Tp)MFe3S4Cl3]z (M = Mo, z = 1-; M = V, z = 2-) react with PEt3 to give [(Tp)MFe3S4(PEt3)3]1+, which are reduced to the neutral edge-bridged double cubanes [(Tp)2M2Fe6S8(PEt3)4] with highly reduced (2[MFe3S4]1+) cores. Reaction of these clusters in acetonitrile with (Et4N)(HS) results in the formation of [(Tp)2Mo2Fe6S9(SH)2]3- and [(Tp)2V2Fe6S9(SH)2]4-. X-ray structures of the Et4N+ salts reveal the bridging pattern M2Fe6(mu2-S)2(mu3-S)6(mu6-S) in which two cuboidal MFe3(mu3-S)3 units share the common bridge atom mu6-S and are externally bridged by two mu2-S atoms. The M sites possess trigonal octahedral, and the Fe sites, distorted tetrahedral coordination. Hydrosulfide ligands and sulfide atoms simulate terminal cysteinate ligation and mu2 bridges, respectively, in the protein-bound cluster Fe8S7(mu2-SCys)2(SCys)4. The synthetic clusters have the same bridging pattern as the PN cluster and approach congruency with it. These clusters are the first molecular topological analogues of a PN cluster. Like the latter, they are substantially reduced (majority of Fe(II)).

Biomimetic Materials↗

Site-differentiated hexanuclear rhenium(III) cyanide clusters [Re(6)Se(8)(PEt(3))(n)()(CN)(6)(-)(n)()](n)()(-)(4) (n = 4, 5) and kinetics of solvate ligand exchange on the cubic [Re(6)Se(8)](2+) Core.

The site-differentiated, cyanide-substituted hexanuclear rhenium(III) selenide clusters cis- and trans-[Re(6)Se(8)(PEt(3))(4)(CN)(2)] and [Re(6)Se(8)(PEt(3))(5)(CN)](+) have been prepared from heterogeneous reactions of the corresponding iodo clusters with AgCN in refluxing chloroform. Isolated yields are 68%, 46%, and 64% for cis-[Re(6)Se(8)(PEt(3))(4)(CN)(2)], trans-[Re(6)Se(8)(PEt(3))(4)(CN)(2)], and [Re(6)Se(8)(PEt(3))(5)(CN)](+), respectively. The new compounds are air- and water-stable and are characterized by X-ray diffraction crystallography, (31)P NMR and IR spectroscopies, and FAB mass spectrometry. In related work, the solvent exchange rates of two site-differentiated monosolvate clusters, [Re(6)Se(8)(PEt(3))(5)(MeCN)](SbF(6))(2) and [Re(6)Se(8)(PEt(3))(5)(Me(2)SO)](SbF(6))(2), in neat solvents were measured by (1)H NMR. These clusters are substitutionally inert; k approximately 10(-)(5)-10(-)(6) s(-)(1) at 318 K. Activation parameters indicate a dissociative ligand exchange mechanism; DeltaH() values obtained from least-squares fitting of temperature-dependent kinetics data exceed RT by a factor of ca. 50 over the temperature range studied. These results demonstrate that the substitutional lability encountered in a previous study of cluster photophysics (Gray, T. G.; Rudzinski, C. M.; Nocera, D. G.; Holm, R. H. Inorg. Chem. 1999, 38, 5932) cannot result from ground-state thermal reactions.

Journal Article↗

High-nuclearity sulfide-rich molybdenum[bond]iron[bond]sulfur clusters: reevaluation and extension.

High-nuclearity Mo[bond]Fe[bond]S clusters are of interest as potential synthetic precursors to the MoFe(7)S(9) cofactor cluster of nitrogenase. In this context, the synthesis and properties of previously reported but sparsely described trinuclear [(edt)(2)M(2)FeS(6)](3-) (M = Mo (2), W (3)) and hexanuclear [(edt)(2)Mo(2)Fe(4)S(9)](4-) (4, edt = ethane-1,2-dithiolate; Zhang, Z.; et al. Kexue Tongbao 1987, 32, 1405) have been reexamined and extended. More accurate structures of 2-4 that confirm earlier findings have been determined. Detailed preparations (not previously available) are given for 2 and 3, whose structures exhibit the C(2) arrangement [[(edt)M(S)(mu(2)-S)(2)](2)Fe(III)](3-) with square pyramidal Mo(V) and tetrahedral Fe(III). Oxidation states follow from (57)Fe Mössbauer parameters and an S = (3)/(2) ground state from the EPR spectrum. The assembly system 2/3FeCl(3)/3Li(2)S/nNaSEt in methanol/acetonitrile (n = 4) affords (R(4)N)(4)[4] (R = Et, Bu; 70-80%). The structure of 4 contains the [Mo(2)Fe(4)(mu(2)-S)(6)(mu(3)-S)(2)(mu(4)-S)](0) core, with the same bridging pattern as the [Fe(6)S(9)](2-) core of [Fe(6)S(9)(SR)(2)](4-) (1), in overall C(2v) symmetry. Cluster 4 supports a reversible three-member electron transfer series 4-/3-/2- with E(1/2) = -0.76 and -0.30 V in Me(2)SO. Oxidation of (Et(4)N)(4)[4] in DMF with 1 equiv of tropylium ion gives [(edt)(2)Mo(2)Fe(4)S(9)](3-) (5) isolated as (Et(4)N)(3)[5].2DMF (75%). Alternatively, the assembly system (n = 3) gives the oxidized cluster directly as (Bu(4)N)(3)[5] (53%). Treatment of 5 with 1 equiv of [Cp(2)Fe](1+) in DMF did not result in one-electron oxidation but instead produced heptanuclear [(edt)(2)Mo(2)Fe(5)S(11)](3-) (6), isolated as the Bu(4)N(+)salt (38%). Cluster 6 features the previously unknown core Mo(2)Fe(5)(mu(2)-S)(7)(mu(3)-S)(4) in molecular C(2) symmetry. In 4-6, the (edt)MoS(3) sites are distorted trigonal bipramidal and the FeS(4) sites are distorted tetrahedral with all sulfide ligands bridging. Mössbauer spectroscopic data for 2 and 4-6 are reported; (mean) iron oxidation states increase in the order 4 < 5 approximately 1 < 6 approximately 2. Redox and spectroscopic data attributed earlier to clusters 2 and 4 are largely in disagreement with those determined in this work. The only iron and molybdenum[bond]iron clusters with the same sulfide content as the iron[bond]molybdenum cofactor of nitrogenase are [Fe(6)S(9)(SR)(2)](4-) and [(edt)(2)Mo(2)Fe(4)S(9)](3-)(,4-).

Catalysis↗

Functional analogue reaction systems of the DMSO reductase isoenzyme family: probable mechanism of S-oxide reduction in oxo transfer reactions mediated by bis(dithiolene)-tungsten(IV,VI) complexes.

The recent development of structural and functional analogues of the DMSO reductase family of isoenzymes allows mechanistic examination of the minimal oxygen atom transfer paradigm M(IV) + QO M(VI) O + Q with the biological metals M = Mo and W. Systematic variation of the electronic environment at the WIV center of desoxo bis(dithiolene) complexes is enabled by introduction of para-substituted phenyl groups in the equatorial (eq) dithiolene ligand and the axial (ax) phenolate ligand. The compounds [W(CO)2(S2C2(C6H4-p-X)2)2] (54-60%) have been prepared by ligand transfer from [Ni(S2C2(C6H4-p-X)2)2] to [W(CO)3(MeCN)3]. A series of 25 complexes [W(IV)(OC6H4-p-X')(S2C2(C6H4-p-X)2)2]1- ([X4,X'], X = Br, F, H, Me, OMe; X' = CN, Br, H, Me, NH2; 41-53%) has been obtained by ligand substitution of five dicarbonyl complexes with five phenolate ligands. Linear free energy relationships between E1/2 and Hammett constant p for the electron-transfer series [Ni(S2C2(C6H4-p-X)2)2]0,1-,2- and [W(CO)2(S2C2(C6H4-p-X)2)2]0,1-,2- demonstrate a substituent influence on electron density distribution at the metal center. The reactions [WIV(OC6H4-p-X')(S2C2(C6H4-p-X)2)2]1- + (CH2)4SO [W(VI)O(OC6H4-p-X')(S2C2(C6H4-p-X)2)2]1- + (CH2)4S with constant substrate are second order with large negative activation entropies indicative of an associative transition state. Rate constants at 298 K adhere to the Hammett equations log(k([X4,X']/k[X4,H]) = rho(ax)sigma(p) and log(k[X4,X']/k([H4,X']) = 4rho(eq)sigma(p). Electron-withdrawing groups (EWG) and electron-donating groups (EDG) have opposite effects on the rate such that k(EWG) > k(EDG). The effects of X' on reactivity are found to be approximately 5 times greater than that of X (rho(ax) = 2.1, rho(eq) = 0.44) in the Hammett equation. Using these and other findings, a stepwise oxo transfer reaction pathway is proposed in which an early transition state, of primary W(IV)-O(substrate) bond-making character, is rate-limiting. This is followed by a six-coordinate substrate complex and a second transition state proposed to involve atom and electron transfer leading to the development of the W(VI)=O group. This work is the most detailed mechanistic investigation of oxo transfer mediated by a biological metal.

Binding Sites↗

Structural characterization of metallopeptides designed as scaffolds for the stabilization of nickel(II)-Fe(4)S(4) bridged assemblies by X-ray absorption spectroscopy.

In earlier work, de novo designed peptides with a helix-loop-helix motif and 63 residues have been synthesized as potential scaffolds for stabilization of the [Ni(II)-X-Fe(4)S(4)] bridged assembly that is the spectroscopically deduced structure of the A-Cluster in clostridial carbon monoxide dehydrogenase. The 63mers contain a consensus tricysteinyl ferredoxin domain in the loop for binding an Fe(4)S(4) cluster and Cys and His residues proximate to the loop for binding Ni(II), with one Cys residue designed as the bridge X. The metallopeptides HC(4)H(2)-[Fe(4)S(4)]-Ni and HC(5)H-[Fe(4)S(4)]-M, containing three His and one Cys residue for Ni(II) coordination and two His and two Cys residues for binding M = Ni(II) and Co(II), have been examined by Fe-, Ni-, and Co-K edge spectroscopy and EXAFS. All peptides bind an [Fe(4)S(4)](2+) cubane-type cluster. Interpretation of the Ni and Co data is complicated by the presence of a minority population of six-coordinate species with low Z ligands, designated for simplicity as [M(OH(2))(6)](2+). Best fits of the data were obtained with ca. 20% [M(OH(2))(6)](2+) and ca. 80% M(II) with mixed N/S coordination. The collective XAS results for HC(4)H(2)-[Fe(4)S(4)]-Ni and HC(5)H-[Fe(4)S(4)]-M demonstrate the presence of an Fe(4)S(4) cluster and support the existence of the distorted square-planar coordination units [Ni(II)(S.Cys)(N.His)(3)] and [Ni(II)(S.Cys)(2)(N.His)(2)] in the HC(4)H(2) and HC(5)H metallopeptides, respectively. In the HC(5)H metallopeptide, tetrahedral [Co(II)(S.Cys)(2)(N.His)(2)] is present. We conclude that the designed scaffolded binding sites, including Ni-(mu(2)-S.Cys)-Fe bridges, have been achieved. This is the first XAS study of a de novo designed metallopeptide intended to stabilize a bridged biological assembly, and one of a few XAS analyses of metal derivatives of designed peptides. The scaffolding concept should be extendable to other bridged metal assemblies.

Aldehyde Oxidoreductases↗

Single- and double-cubane clusters in the multiple oxidation states [VFe(3)S(4)](3+,2+,1+).

A new series of cubane-type [VFe(3)S(4)](z)() clusters (z = 1+, 2+, 3+) has been prepared as possible precursor species for clusters related to those present in vanadium-containing nitrogenase. Treatment of [(HBpz(3))VFe(3)S(4)Cl(3)](2)(-) (2, z = 2+), protected from further reaction at the vanadium site by the tris(pyrazolyl)hydroborate ligand, with ferrocenium ion affords the oxidized cluster [(HBpz(3))VFe(3)S(4)Cl(3)](1)(-) (3, z = 3+). Reaction of 2 with Et(3)P results in chloride substitution to give [(HBpz(3))VFe(3)S(4)(PEt(3))(3)](1+) (4, z = 2+). Reaction of 4 with cobaltocene reduced the cluster with formation of the edge-bridged double-cubane [(HBpz(3))(2)V(2)Fe(6)S(8)(PEt(3))(4)] (5, z = 1+, 1+), which with excess chloride underwent ligand substitution to afford [(HBpz(3))(2)V(2)Fe(6)S(8)Cl(4)](4)(-) (6, z = 1+, 1+). X-ray structures of (Me(4)N)[3], [4](PF(6)), 5, and (Et(4)N)(4)[6] x 2MeCN are described. Cluster 5 is isostructural with previously reported [(Cl(4)cat)(2)(Et(3)P)(2)Mo(2)Fe(6)S(8)(PEt(3))(4)] and contains two VFe(3)S(4) cubanes connected across edges by a Fe(2)S(2) rhomb in which the bridging Fe-S distances are shorter than intracubane Fe-S distances. Mössbauer (2-5), magnetic (2-5), and EPR (2, 4) data are reported and demonstrate an S = 3/2 ground state for 2 and 4 and a diamagnetic ground state for 3. Analysis of (57)Fe isomer shifts based on an empirical correlation between shift and oxidation state and appropriate reference shifts results in two conclusions. (i) The oxidation 2 --> 3 + e(-) results in a change in electron density localized largely or completely on the Fe(3) subcluster and associated sulfur atoms. (ii) The most appropriate charge distributions are [V(3+)Fe(3+)Fe(2+)(2)S(4)](2+) (Fe(2.33+)) for 1, 2, and 4 and [V(3+)Fe(3+)(2)Fe(2+)S(4)](3+) (Fe(2.67+)) for 3 and [V(2)Fe(6)S(8)(SEt)(9)](3+). Conclusion i applies to every MFe(3)S(4) cubane-type cluster thus far examined in different redox states at parity of cluster ligation. The formalistic charge distributions are regarded as the best current approximations to electron distributions in these delocalized species. The isomer shifts require that iron atoms are mixed-valence in each cluster.

Catalysis↗

Heterometal cubane-type MFe(3)S(4) clusters (M = Mo, V) trigonally symmetrized with hydrotris(pyrazolyl)borate(1-) and tris(pyrazolyl)methanesulfonate(1-) capping ligands.

A series of heterometal cubane-type clusters containing [VFe(3)S(4)](2+) and [MoFe(3)S(4)](3+,2+) cores has been prepared. Ligand substitution of [(DMF)(3)VFe(3)S(4)Cl(3)](-) affords [(Tpms)VFe(3)S(4)L(3)](2)(-) (L = Cl(-) (8), EtS(-) (9), p-MeC(6)H(4)S(-), p-MeC(6)H(4)O(-)). A new procedure for the preparation of molybdenum single cubanes is introduced by the reaction of recently reported [(Tp)MoS(S(4))](-) with FeCl(2)/NaSEt to afford [(Tp)MoFe(3)S(4)Cl(3)](-) (1, 75% yield). This procedure is more efficient that the existing multistep synthesis of single cubanes, which generally affords clusters of mirror symmetry. Also prepared were [(Tp)MoFe(3)S(4)L(3)](-) (L = EtS(-) (2), p-MeC(6)H(4)S(-)). Reduction of 1 with borohydride gives [(Tp)MoFe(3)S(4)Cl(3)](2-) (5, 67%). Owing to the nature of the heterometal ligand, all clusters have idealized trigonal symmetry, reflected in their (1)H NMR spectra. Trigonal structures are demonstrated by crystallography of (Bu(4)N)[1,2], (Bu(4)N)(2)[5] x MeCN, and (Me(4)N)(2)[8,9]. The availability of 1 and 5 allows the first comparison of structures and (57)Fe isomer shifts of [MoFe(3)S(4)](3+,2+) in a constant ligand environment. Small increases in most bond distances indicate that an antibonding electron is added in the reduction of 1. Collective synthetic and electrochemical results from this and other studies demonstrate the existence of the series of oxidation states [VFe(3)S(4)](3+,2+,1+) and [MoFe(3)S(4)](4+,3+,2+) whose relative stabilities within a given series are strongly ligand dependent. Isomer shifts indicate that the reduction of 1 largely affects the Fe(3) subcluster and are consistent with the formal descriptions [MoFe(3+)(2)Fe(2+)S(4)](3+) (1) and [MoFe(3+)Fe(2+)(2)S(4)](2+) (5). Reaction of 1 with excess Li(2)S in acetonitrile affords the double cubane [[(Tp)MoFe(3)S(4)Cl(2)](2)(mu(2)(-)S)](2)(-), whose sulfide-bridged structure is supported by two sequential reductions separated by 290 mV, in analogy with previously reported double cubanes of higher charge. Trigonally symmetric single cubanes eliminate isomers in the formation of double cubanes and other cluster structures, and may be of considerable value in the preparation of new types of M-Fe-S clusters. (Tpms = tris(pyrazolyl)methanesulfonate(1-); Tp = hydrotris(pyrazolyl)borate(1-).)

Boron Compounds↗

Stability and nickel binding properties of peptides designed as scaffolds for the stabilization of Ni(II)-Fe(4)S(4) bridged assemblies.

Helix-loop-helix peptides containing 63 residues (HC(4)H(2), HC(4)HC, HC(5)H), designated by their sequence and content of histidyl (H) and cysteinyl (C) residues, have been previously synthesized for the purpose of stabilizing certain bridged metal sites in proteins. These peptides bind one Fe(4)S(4) cluster by means of a ferredoxin tricysteinyl consensus sequence and an additional Cys residue, and one Ni(II) atom (HC(4)H(2), HC(5)H) in predesigned binding sites. In this investigation, the apopeptides and their Fe(4)S(4) derivatives are shown to be relatively stable to unfolding by guanidine hydrochloride, indicating stability of secondary structure. With this property demonstrated, Ni(II) binding equilibria have been evaluated in the terms of site-specific (Scatchard model) and stepwise (stoichiometric) binding constants. Two peptides were designed to have preformed CysHis(3) (HC(4)H(2)) and Cys(2)His(2) (HC(5)H) binding sites. The data indicate one strong binding site in each peptide with preferred binding constants k(1)=4.4x10(5) M(-1)(HC(4)H(2)) and 2.7x10(5) M(-1)(HC(5)H). Based on X-ray absorption spectroscopic data, these binding steps are associated with the formation of the desired coordination units Ni(II)CysHis(3) and Ni(II)Cys(2)His(2). For peptide HC(4)HC, k(1)=2.5x10(5) M(-1), but the binding site could not be fully identified. Collective evidence from this and prior investigations supports the presence of the bridged assemblies Ni(II)-(mu(2)-S x Cys)-[Fe(4)S(4)], stabilized by a scaffolding effect in peptides HC(4)H(2) and HC(5)H. The assembly Ni(II)-X-[Fe(4)S(4)] is the minimal structure of the A-Cluster of carbon monoxide dehydrogenase adduced from spectroscopic evidence; bridge X is currently unidentified. These results suggest that de novo designed peptides may serve as scaffolds for the construction of native bridged sites in proteins. Electronic supplementary material to this paper can be obtained by using the Springer Link server located at http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s00775-001-0320-4.

Amino Acid Sequence↗

Helix-loop-helix peptides as scaffolds for the construction of bridged metal assemblies in proteins: the spectroscopic A-cluster structure in carbon monoxide dehydrogenase.

Four helix-loop-helix 63mer peptides were designed and synthesized in order to assess the utility of peptides as scaffolds for the stabilization of complex metal sites in proteins. Bridged assembly [Ni(II)-(mu(2)-S.Cys)-Fe(4)S(4)], consistent with spectroscopic information on the A-cluster of carbon monoxide dehydrogenase, was chosen as the target assembly. The peptides consist of two helices with approximately 20 residues connected by a flexible loop containing the ferredoxin consensus sequence Cys-Ile-Ala-Cys-Gly-Ala-Cys to bind the Fe(4)S(4) cluster. A fourth cysteine was positioned to serve as the bridging ligand between the cluster and Ni(II). Three other binding residues were incorporated in appropriate positions to constitute a binding site for Ni(II). One of the peptides was designed with an N(3)S (His(3)Cys) site, and each of the other three with N(2)S(2) (His(2)Cys(2)) sites. A detailed account of the synthesis and characterization of the peptides and their metalloderivatives is presented. The four peptides were synthesized using an Fmoc/t-Bu-based solid-phase strategy, purified by reversed-phase HPLC, and characterized by ES-MS. On the basis of size-exclusion chromatography and circular dichroism spectropolarimetry, these peptides appear to dimerize in solution to form four-helix bundles of high helical contents. Reactions of the peptides with preformed cluster [Fe(4)S(4)(SCH(2)CH(2)OH)(4)](2)(-) and subsequent purification by column chromatography yield a product consistent with the incorporation of one [Fe(4)S(4)](2+) cluster per 63mer, as judged from absorption and Mössbauer spectra. Addition of a Ni(II) salt to the [Fe(4)S(4)]-peptides results in an apparent equilibrium between free Ni(II) and a peptide-bound nickel form, as established by column chromatography studies. Nickel EXAFS data (Musgrave, K. B.; Laplaza, C. E.; Holm, R. H.; Hedman, B.; Hodgson, K. O. Results to be published.) provide strong evidence that the peptide-bound nickel binds in the desired site in two of the metallopeptides. This work represents the first exploration of peptides as scaffolds for the support of biologically relevant bridged assemblies containing iron-sulfur clusters.

Aldehyde Oxidoreductases↗

Monodithiolene molybdenum(V, VI) complexes: a structural analogue of the oxidized active site of the sulfite oxidase enzyme family.

The active sites of the xanthine oxidase and sulfite oxidase enzyme families contain one pterin-dithiolene cofactor ligand bound to a molybdenum atom. Consequently, monodithiolene molybdenum complexes have been sought by exploratory synthesis for structural and reactivity studies. Reaction of [MoO(S(2)C(2)Me(2))(2)](1-) or [MoO(bdt)(2)](1-) with PhSeCl results in removal of one dithiolate ligand and formation of [MoOCl(2)(S(2)C(2)Me(2))](1-) (1) or [MoOCl(2)(bdt)](1-) (2), which undergoes ligand substitution reactions to form other monodithiolene complexes [MoO(2-AdS)(2)(S(2)C(2)Me(2))](1-) (3), [MoO(SR)(2)(bdt)](1-) (R = 2-Ad (4), 2,4,6-Pr(i)(3)C(6)H(2) (5)), and [MoOCl(SC(6)H(2)-2,4,6-Pr(i)(3))(bdt)](1-) (6) (Ad = 2-adamantyl, bdt = benzene-1,2-dithiolate). These complexes have square pyramidal structures with apical oxo ligands, exhibit rhombic EPR spectra, and 3-5 are electrochemically reducible to Mo(IV)O species. Complexes 1-6 constitute the first examples of five-coordinate monodithiolene Mo(V)O complexes; 6 approaches the proposed structure of the high-pH form of sulfite oxidase. Treatment of [MoO(2)(OSiPh(3))(2)] with Li(2)(bdt) in THF affords [MoO(2)(OSiPh(3))(bdt)](1-) (8). Reaction of 8 with 2,4,6-Pr(i)(3)C(6)H(2)SH in acetonitrile gives [MoO(2)(SC(6)H(2)-2,4,6-Pr(i)(3))(bdt)](1-) (9, 55%). Complexes 8 and 9 are square pyramidal with apical and basal oxo ligands. With one dithiolene and one thiolate ligand of a square pyramidal Mo(VI)O(2)S(3) coordination unit, 9 closely resembles the oxidized sites in sulfite oxidase and assimilatory nitrate reductase as deduced from crystallography (sulfite oxidase) and Mo EXAFS. The complex is the first structural analogue of the active sites in fully oxidized members of the sulfite oxidase family. This work provides a starting point for the development of both structural and reactivity analogues of members of this family.

Animals↗

Substitution and oxidation reactions of bis(dithiolene)tungsten complexes of potential relevance to enzyme sites.

Structurally characterized tungstoenzymes contain mononuclear active sites in which tungsten is coordinated by two pterin-dithiolene ligands and one or two additional ligands that have not been identified. In this and prior investigations (Sung, K.-M.; Holm, R. H. Inorg. Chem. 2000, 39, 1275; J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2001, 123, 1931), stable coordination units of bis(dithiolene)tungsten(IV,V,VI) complexes potentially related to enzyme sites have been sought by exploratory synthesis. In this work, additional members of the sets [WL(S2C2Me2)2](2-,-) and [WLL'(S2C2Me2)2](2-,-) have been prepared and structurally characterized. Tungsten(IV) complexes obtained by substitution are carbonyl displacement products of [W(CO)2(S2C2Me2)2] and include those with the groups W(IV)S (4), W(IV)(O2CPh) (5), and W(IV)(2-AdQ)(CO) (Q = S (6), Se (7); Ad = adamantyl). Those obtained by oxidation reactions contain the groups W(V)O (9), W(V)(QPh)2 (Q = S (10), Se (11)), W(VI)S(OPh) (12), and W(VI)O2 (14). The latter two complexes were obtained from W(IV) precursors using sulfur and oxygen atom transfer reactions, respectively. Complexes 4 and 9 are square pyramidal; 6, 7, 10, and 11 are distorted trigonal prismatic with cis ligands LL'; and 12 and 14 are distorted octahedral. Complexes 4, 10, and 11 support three-membered electron transfer series. Attempts to oxidize 4 to the W(V)S complex results in the formation of binuclear [W2(mu2-S)2(S2C2Me2)4](2-) having distorted octahedral coordination. The 21 known functional groups WL and WLL' in mononuclear bis(dithiolene) complexes prepared in this and prior investigations are tabulated. Of those with physiological-type ligands, it remains to be seen which (if any) of these ligation modes are displayed by enzyme sites.

Catalytic Domain↗

Nickel dithiolenes revisited: structures and electron distribution from density functional theory for the three-member electron-transfer series [Ni(S2C2Me2)2]0,1-,2-.

The complexes [Ni(S2C2Me2)2](z) (z = 0, 1-, 2-) have been isolated for the purpose of investigating their electronic structures in a reversible three-member electron-transfer series. Members are interrelated by reversible redox reactions with E(1/2)(0/1-) = -0.15 V and E(1/2)(1-/2-) = -1.05 V versus SCE in acetonitrile. The three complexes have nearly planar structures of idealized D(2)(h) symmetry. As the series is traversed in the reducing direction, Ni-S and C-S bond lengths increase; the chelate ring C-C bond length decreases from the neutral complex to the monoanion and does not change significantly in the dianion. Structural trends are compared with previous results for [Ni(S2C2R2)2)](1-,2-). Following the geometrical changes, values of nu(Ni)(-)(S) and nu(C)(-)(S) decrease, while the value of nu(C)(-)(C) increases with increased reduction. Geometry optimizations at the density functional theory (DFT) level were performed for all members of the series. Geometrical parameters obtained from the calculations are in good agreement with the experimental findings. The 5b(2g) orbital was identified as the LUMO in [Ni(S2C2Me2)2], the SOMO in [Ni(S2C2Me2)2](1-), and the HOMO in [Ni(S2C2Me2)2]2-. Unlike in the situation in the [M(CO)2-(S2C2Me2)2]z series (M = Mo, W; z = 0, 1-, 2-), the apparent contribution from the metal d orbital in the electroactive orbital is not constant. In the present series, the d(xz) contribution increases from 13 to 20 to 39% upon passing from the neutral to the monoanionic to the dianionic complex. Accurate calculation of EPR g-values of [Ni(S2C2Me2)2]1- by DFT serves as a test for the reliability of the electronic structure calculations.

Crystallography, X-Ray↗