Metal Complexes of Biologically Important Ligands, CLXXVI.[1] Formation of Peptides within the Coordination Sphere of Metal Ions and of Classical and Organometallic Complexes and Some Aspects of Prebiotic Chemistry

The formation of peptide bonds in the neighborhood of metal ions is reviewed. The metal ions can function as activating and catalytic groups; they can act as templates. Metal ions can play a role as stabilizing spectators when peptides are formed within their ligands and they are able to protect the amino or carboxylate group of amino acids during peptide synthesis. Some related chemistry of metal-peptide conjugates is included. This survey represents an attractive combination of coordination, organic, organometallic chemistry and biochemistry and reveals some interesting aspects of prebiotic chemistry.