transition-metal based catalytic systems for intracellular transformations

Intracellular catalytic reactions can enable in situ labeling and controlled increase or depletion of biomolecule concentrations in biological systems.

Catalysts and reactions for intracellular catalysis must be compatible with biological conditions, including aqueous and oxygen-containing environments.

Catalytically active metal compounds may turn over many substrate molecules, so only small amounts may be required to achieve a desired pharmacologic effect.

Using catalytic rather than stoichiometric metal compounds may reduce toxicity and side reactions.

The review focuses on intracellular catalytic transformations performed on small biomolecules, non-natural molecules such as dyes, and biomacromolecules such as proteins.