Improved biocatalysts by directed evolution and rational protein design

Curr Opin Chem Biol. 2001 Apr;5(2):137-43. doi: 10.1016/s1367-5931(00)00182-4.

Abstract

The efficient application of biocatalysts requires the availability of suitable enzymes with high activity and stability under process conditions, desired substrate selectivity and high enantioselectivity. However, wild-type enzymes often need to be optimized to fulfill these requirements. Two rather contradictory tools can be used on a molecular level to create tailor-made biocatalysts: directed evolution and rational protein design.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Catalysis
  • Directed Molecular Evolution / methods*
  • Directed Molecular Evolution / trends
  • Enzyme Activation / physiology
  • Enzyme Stability / physiology
  • Enzymes / metabolism*
  • Esterases / genetics
  • Gene Library
  • Mutagenesis, Site-Directed / genetics
  • Protein Engineering / methods*
  • Protein Engineering / trends
  • Pseudomonas fluorescens / enzymology
  • Stereoisomerism
  • Substrate Specificity / physiology

Substances

  • Enzymes
  • Esterases