Formate Dehydrogenase Mimics as Catalysts for Carbon Dioxide Reduction

Formate dehydrogenases (FDH) reversibly catalyze the interconversion of CO2 to formate. They belong to the family of molybdenum and tungsten-dependent oxidoreductases. For several decades, scientists have been synthesizing structural and functional model complexes inspired by these enzymes. These studies not only allow for finding certain efficient catalysts but also in some cases to better understand the functioning of the enzymes. However, FDH models for catalytic CO2 reduction are less studied compared to the oxygen atom transfer (OAT) reaction. Herein, we present recent results of structural and functional models of FDH.