Electrocatalytic and Enzymatic Inhibition by Metal Complexes

Abstract

Metal complexes have emerged as versatile compounds with significant applications in both electrocatalysis and enzymatic inhibition. The unique electronic properties and coordination geometries of transition metal complexes enable them to facilitate electron transfer processes in electrocatalytic reactions while simultaneously interacting with biological enzymes to modulate their activity. This paper explores the dual functionality of metal complexes in advancing electrocatalytic processes for energy conversion and environmental remediation, as well as their therapeutic potential through enzyme inhibition mechanisms. The coordination environment, oxidation states, and ligand architectures play crucial roles in determining the efficacy of metal complexes in both domains. Recent developments in copper-based coordination polymers, ruthenium catalysts, and zinc-containing metalloenzyme inhibitors demonstrate the growing importance of rational design strategies. Understanding the structure-activity relationships and mechanistic pathways is essential for developing next-generation catalysts and therapeutic agents. This review examines the current state of metal complex applications, highlighting key design principles, mechanistic insights, and future directions for research in this interdisciplinary field spanning materials chemistry, bioinorganic chemistry, and medicinal chemistry.