Atomic-level design of biomimetic iron–sulfur clusters for biocatalysis

Abstract

Designing biomimetic materials with high activity and customized biological functions by mimicking the central structure of biomolecules has become an important avenue for the development of medical materials. As an essential electron carrier, the iron–sulfur (Fe–S) clusters have the advantages of simple structure and high electron transport capacity. To rationally design and accurately construct functional materials, it is crucial to clarify the electronic structure and conformational relationships of Fe–S clusters. However, due to the complex catalytic mechanism and synthetic process in vitro, it is hard to reveal the structure–activity relationship of Fe–S clusters accurately. This review introduces the main structural types of Fe–S clusters and their catalytic mechanisms first. Then, several typical structural design strategies of biomimetic Fe–S clusters are systematically introduced. Furthermore, the development of Fe–S clusters in the biocatalytic field is enumerated, including tumor treatment, antibacterial, virus inhibition and plant photoprotection. Finally, the problems and development directions of Fe–S clusters are summarized. This review aims to guide people to accurately understand and regulate the electronic structure of Fe–S at the atomic level, which is of great significance for designing biomimetic materials with specific functions and expanding their applications in biocatalysis.