ABSTRACT

Interaction between the cluster and the aspartate carboxylate is an important part of the electron-proton coupling mechanism. Once the cluster is protonated, the pK of the D15 carboxylate decreases to a value approaching that observed when the cluster is oxidized (pK1>>pK2~pKox). Simultaneously, the pK of the cluster is sensitive to the protonation state of the aspartate.