Cover Feature: Influence of Charge Delocalization on Manganese Catalyzed Transfer Hydrogenation (ChemCatChem 7/2024)

Graphical Abstract The Cover Feature shows an anionic manganese compound with the negative charge delocalized towards the hydride, which is crucial for catalytic activity in the transfer hydrogenation of ketones. In their Research Article, N. C. Mösch-Zanetti et al. deliver ample evidence that the manganese catalyst requires a ligand with a deprotonable moiety that allows efficient delocalization to the metal for an effective hydrogen transfer, whereas geometrical access of the acidic proton to the substrate is not essential. Our findings highlight the importance of an anionic hydrido intermediate, where mesomerism enables an effective charge transfer to the metal. This may support the ongoing development of new manganese-based catalysts. More information can be found in the Research Article by N. C. Mösch-Zanetti et al.