Intercluster Redox Coupling Influences Protonation at the H-cluster in [FeFe] Hydrogenases

[FeFe] hydrogenases catalyze proton reduction and hydrogen oxidation displaying high rates at low overpotential. Their active site is a complex cofactor consisting of a unique [2Fe] subcluster ([2Fe]_H) covalently bound to a canonical [4Fe-4S] cluster ([4Fe-4S]_H). The [FeFe] hydrogenase from Desulfovibrio desulfuricans is exceptionally active and bidirectional. This enzyme features two accessory [4Fe-4S]_F clusters for exchanging electrons with the protein surface. A thorough understanding of the mechanism of this efficient enzyme will facilitate the development of synthetic molecular catalysts for hydrogen conversion. Here, it is demonstrated that the accessory clusters influence the catalytic properties of the enzyme through a strong redox interaction between the proximal [4Fe-4S]_F cluster and the [4Fe-4S]_H subcluster of the H-cluster. This interaction enhances proton-coupled electronic rearrangement within the H-cluster increasing the apparent pK_a of its one electron reduced state. This may help to sustain H₂ production at high pH values. These results may apply to all [FeFe] hydrogenases containing accessory clusters.