Rapid type 2 molybdenum(V) electron-paramagnetic resonance signals from xanthine oxidase and the structure of the active centre of the enzyme.

Rapid type 2 molybdenum(V) e.p.r. signals from reduced functional xanthine oxidase have been further investigated. These signals, which show strong coupling of two protons to molybdenum, have been obtained under a variety of new conditions: specifically either at pH 8.2 in the presence of borate ions, or at pH 10.1--10.7 with or without various other additions. Parameters of the signals were obtained with the help of computer simulations. In at least some of these signals, the coupled protons must be located on the enzyme rather than on bound species. The relationship between type 1 and type 2 Rapid signals is discussed. They may represent geometrical isomers, or alternatively, hydroxyl uptake as a ligand of molybdenum may be involved in formation of type 2 species.