Redox properties nitrogenase complexes

Further work has been reported - with Fe-Mo models for nitro-genase, and a molecular mechanism has been proposed for the action of molybdenum in enzymes. In all reactions catalysed by Mo enzymes, the product and substrate differ by two electrons and two protons (or some multiple thereof). The co-ordination chemistry of Mo suggests that there is a distinct relationship between acid-base and redox properties of Mo complexes, and that a coupled electron-proton transfer (to or from substrate) may be mediated by Mo in enzymes. Each of the molybdenum enzymes (nitrogenase, nitrate reductase, xanthine oxidase, aldehyde oxidase, and sulphite oxidase) is discussed and it is shown that a simple molecular mechanism embodying coupled proton-electron transfer can explain many key experimental observations. 

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