How to overcome limitations in biotechnological processes - examples from hydroxynitrile lyase applications.

Full Abstract

During the last decades, enzymes became very versatile catalysts for a variety of reactions including natural and unnatural compounds. However, many enzyme-catalysed reactions suffer from diverse restrictions because of limitations related to process parameters or the enzyme. The understanding and overcoming of those undesired side effects is therefore mandatory for the implementation of optimal process parameters. To achieve this aim, various methods from molecular biology and reaction engineering can be employed. By focusing on the hydroxynitrile lyase-catalysed synthesis of enantiopure cyanohydrins, we give an overview of strategies to improve commercially utilized enzymes and to suppress non-enzymatic reactions. Particular emphasis is placed on the necessity to combine approaches from different fields, such as enzyme engineering and reaction engineering.

Author information

Author/s: Andexer, J N (JN); Langermann, J V (JV); Kragl, U (U); Pohl, M (M);

Affiliation: Institut für Molekulare Enzymtechnologie, Universität Düsseldorf, D-52426 Jülich, Germany.

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Journal Article; Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't; Review

Journal: Trends in biotechnology (Trends Biotechnol), published in England. (Language: eng)

Reference: 2009-Oct; vol 27 (issue 10) : pp 599-607

Dates: Created 2009/09/14; Completed 2009/11/09;

PMID: 19716614, status: MEDLINE (last retrieved date: 11/9/2009)

Sourced from the National Library of Medicine. Abstract text and other information may be subject to copyright.

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