CIC Medal Award Lecture — Molecular keystones: Lessons from bioorganic reaction mechanisms

Abstract

The work of the author is reviewed in terms of "keystone molecules" that serve as figurative points of support to understand the interactions of smaller molecules within biological macromolecules. The review emphasizes lessons learned in carboxylation of biotin, reactions of cyclic phosphates, the uses of acyl phosphate monoesters, and the mechanism of decarboxylation of thiamin-derived intermediates.Key words: CIC medal, biotin, ATP, mechanisms, cyclic phosphates, thiamin, acyl phosphates, catalysis.