Reductive Catalysis by Heme Proteins

University Of California-Irvine, Irvine CA

Investigators

Abstract

Professor Patrick Farmer, a faculty member in the Department of Chemistry at the University of California at Irvine, is supported by the Inorganic, Bioinorganic and Organometallic Chemistry Program to develop heme-based catalysis. Protein radical generation and electrocatalytic dehalogenations are two reaction targets, and characterization of nitroxyl (HNO) biological reaction pathways is another component of this project. Hybrid protein models for NOx and SOx reductase enzymes are being developed, too. The role of heme enzymes in multi-electron reductions and oxidations provides a rich area of study for chemists. The mutiple biological functions of NO reflect a surprising molecular choice for signaling purposes, and HNO is a closely allied molecule. The combination of classical coordination chemistry, molecular biology and electrochemical techniques assures breadth in training for both graduate and undergraduate students.