MEDI 431

A conveniently simple model system, copper diglycinate, exists as both cis and trans isomers. While the cis isomer forms in aqueous solution, it is easily converted to the trans form on heating in the solid state. Some authors have suggested that although the trans isomer is more thermodynamically stable, the cis isomer is the kinetic product in aqueous solution. However, quantum chemistry studies reveal a different explanation.

Models of potential reaction pathways from simple intramolecular isomerization to water-catalyzed isomerization in solution, are compared with experimental observations and offer new insights into the coordination chemistry of copper with amino acids.