Engineered Enzymes and Bioinspired Catalysts for Energy Conversion

Metalloenzymes play critical roles in the environment by catalyzing redox reactions in biogeochemical cycles. The elucidation of structure-function relationships in these biocatalysts has provided a foundation for the development of bioinspired catalysts for fuel production and small-molecule activation. In this Perspective, we highlight developments in engineered biomolecular and bioinspired catalysts for the reduction of H+, O-2, and CO2 and for the oxidation of H-2 and H2O. The roles of proton transfers and second-sphere interactions in particular are highlighted.