Pre-steady-state kinetics of intermediate formation in the deuteroferriheme-hydrogen peroxide system.

The pH dependence of formation of a peroxidatic intermediate from the reaction of deuteroferriheme with hydrogen peroxide has been determined for the region pH 8.7-10.1 from stopped-flow kinetic studies in which absorbancy changes are observed at heme monomer-dimer isosbestic points. Results are interpreted primarily in terms of the attainment of double "steady-state" concentrations of Michaelis-Menten complex I and peroxidatic intermediate I'. A linear correlation of observed first-order rate constants with alpha, the degree of dissociation of heme dimer, has been demonstrated and nonzero intercepts are obtained. Slopes and intercepts show a linear logarithmic dependence on pH which is interpreted in terms of HO2-participation both in the formation and subsequent (catalatic) decomposition of a peroxidatically active intermediate. General acid catalysis of intermediate formation is indicated from studies in phosphate, arsenate, and citrate buffer at pH 7.4-9.3. It is suggested that such catalysis may be responsible for anomalously high rates of H2O2 decomposition previously observed in phosphate buffer solution.