We have observed the interaction of Cd=+, Zi+, and AsOz* with a dithiolsubstituted polymer (N-diiydrolipoyl aminoethoq dextran). Cadmium binding results in an intense uv difference spectrum (x, = 249 nm). Spectrophotometric titrations with CdCl: roves1 formation of two Cd-dithiol complexes characterized as 2-SH/Cd*+ and 3SH/Cd*+. Stability constants were determined by titration of cadmium-saturated polymer with es& EDT.... For the two complexes, KI = 2.7 X 1014 Jf and R= = 7.7 X lOI3 M_ NT-4 is not effective in d&placing Cd?+_ In competition of Cd?* snd Znt+ for dithiol sites, Cd*+ is bound about 599 times more firmly than Zn*f_ Arsenite binding is siuggish (K-85 M-' see-I) and yields a single complex (2-SH/AsO*'-). Competition and kinetic data suggest that 106 Jf < K&e-< lo" M. We have defined basic criteria for evaluation of enzyme active-site &hiols: (1) the binding order "cadium stronger than zinc"; (2) relief of Cd%+ inhibition by l9-fold ezeess EDTh and no relief by lo-fold excess of NTA; (3) inhibition by arsenite.