Clusters [Fe4S4(SR)4]2- as Novel Catalysts in Organic Reductions.

The cluster [Fe4S4(SR)4]2- catalyzed the reductions of nitro compunds, quinones and N-oxide compounds to amines, hydroquinones, and deoxygenated compounds, respectively, in the presence of thiols in CH3CN solution. The reaction mechanism was also investigated by electron spin resonance spectroscopy, and it was concluded that these reactions proceed via one-electron transfer from the cluster to the substrates.