In reality, though, the reaction is slow, inefficient and requires large quantities of both hydrogen peroxide and ferrous (Fe2 +,
a divalent iron ion) salt — which serves as a catalyst.
Based on these results the researchers were able to explain why DMT1 binds the
divalent metal
ions iron and manganese (Fe2 + and Mn2 +), but not calcium (Ca2 +)-- in spite of the latter being several orders of magnitude more abundant.