Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 1, 2026

Detection of Nitric Oxide and Superoxide Radical Anion by Electron Paramagnetic Resonance Spectroscopy from Cells using Spin Traps
Published on: August 18, 2012
Direct NO group transfer from S-nitrosothiols to iron centres
A R Butler1, S Elkins-Daukes, D Parkin
1Department of Chemistry, University of St. Andrews, St. Andrews, Fife, UK KY16 9ST.
S-nitrosothiols rapidly transfer NO groups to iron centers in DMPS and MGD complexes. This reaction mechanism is crucial for understanding nitrosothiol chemistry and iron interactions.
Area of Science:
- Bioinorganic Chemistry
- Coordination Chemistry
- Chemical Biology
Background:
- S-nitrosothiols (RSNOs) are important signaling molecules involved in various physiological processes.
- Iron-sulfur complexes play critical roles in biological systems, including electron transfer and enzyme catalysis.
- Understanding the reactivity of RSNOs with metal centers is key to elucidating their biological functions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the reaction mechanism between S-nitrosothiols and specific Fe(II) complexes.
- To determine the fate of the NO group during the reaction with iron centers.
- To explore the potential of DMPS and MGD as ligands for iron in the context of nitrosothiol interactions.
Main Methods:
- Spectroscopic analysis to monitor reaction progress.
- Kinetic studies to determine reaction rates.
- Characterization of reaction products.
Main Results:
- S-nitrosothiols were observed to react rapidly with Fe(II) complexes of 2,3-dimercapto-1-propanesulfonic acid (DMPS) and N-methyl-D-glucamine dithiocarbamate (MGD).
- The NO group was directly transferred to the iron centers of these complexes.
- The reaction kinetics were found to be dependent on the specific S-nitrosothiol and the iron complex used.
Conclusions:
- The study demonstrates a direct NO group transfer from S-nitrosothiols to Fe(II) centers coordinated by DMPS and MGD.
- This finding provides insight into the chemical reactivity of S-nitrosothiols and their interactions with biological metal ions.
- The results suggest potential implications for the biological activity and therapeutic applications of S-nitrosothiols and their metal complexes.
More Related Videos
08:32Application of Genetically Encoded Fluorescent Nitric Oxide (NO•) Probes, the geNOps, for Real-time Imaging of NO• Signals in Single Cells
Published on: March 16, 2017
08:23Chemiluminescence-based Assays for Detection of Nitric Oxide and its Derivatives from Autoxidation and Nitrosated Compounds
Published on: February 16, 2022
Related Concept Videos
Structure and Nomenclature of Thiols and Sulfides
Preparation and Reactions of Thiols
meta-Directing Deactivators: –NO2, –CN, –CHO, –⁠CO2R, –COR, –CO2H
2° Amines to N-Nitrosamines: Reaction with NaNO2
Phase II Reactions: Miscellaneous Conjugation Reactions
A key example involves the conjugation of cyanide ions, which impair cellular respiration and alter hemoglobin into non-oxygen-carrying cyanmethemoglobin. To neutralize this threat, a sulfur atom from thiosulphate is transferred to the cyanide ion, catalyzed by the enzyme rhodanese, resulting in an inactive compound called thiocyanate. The production of...
Sulfur Assimilation