Iron Proteins with Mononuclear Active Sites

Abstract

Metalloenzymes containing a mononuclear nonheme iron center are often involved in dioxygen metabolism. We have divided this superfamily of enzymes into seven subcategories: iron superoxide dismutase and superoxide reductase, lipoxygenase, catechol dioxygenases, α‐keto acid‐dependent enzymes, isopenicillin N synthase, pterin‐dependent hydroxylases, and Rieske dioxygenases. The degree of catalytic versatility and coordination flexibility encompassed by these enzymes is unsurpassed by any other known metalloenzyme superfamily. Herein we discuss the present state of knowledge regarding their active site structures and the critical role the metal center plays in their respective catalytic mechanisms.