Metal complexes with the zwitterion 4-(trimethylammonio)benzenethiolate: Synthesis, structures and applications

This review summarizes the syntheses, crystal structures and applications of metal complexes with a specific zwitterionic thiolate ligand, 4-(trimethylammonio)benzenethiolate (Tab). The chemistry of Tab with transition metals (Fe, Co, Ni, Pd, Cu, Ag, Au, Zn, Cd, Hg), main group metals (In, Pb, Bi) and in heterometallic systems is described. The most significant structural features of the metal/Tab complexes are summarized and trends are discussed as a function of nuclearity and coordination numbers. The reactivity of specific metal/Tab complexes towards N- and P- donor ligands, organic acids, inorganic anions and metal ions is discussed. The luminescence and dielectric properties of the metal/Tab complexes and their applications as fluorescent biosensors and precursors to metal nanoparticles and catalysts for organic transformations are also illustrated.