Unraveling the biosynthesis of nature's fastest hydrogenase

Take two cyanides and report to work! Cyanide is an essential ingredient of the [FeFe]-hydrogenases. Recent studies have revealed how nature makes these cyanide ligands coordinated to the diiron core of the active site (see structure). Rapidly unfolding research on the maturation process is revealing new dimensions of biosynthesis. The transformations discovered may lead to the development of useful organometallic reactions. (Figure Presented)