Enzyme Engineering
Open Access

Abstract

Editor Note: Enzyme engineering

Lahiru N. Jayakody

Enzyme engineering is the application of modifying an enzyme's structure (and, thus, its function) or modifying the catalytic activity of isolated enzymes to produce new metabolites, to allow new (catalyzed) pathways for reactions to occur, or to convert from some certain compounds into others (biotransformation). These products are useful as chemicals, pharmaceuticals, fuel, food, or agricultural additives. An enzyme reactor consists of a vessel containing a reaction medium that is used to perform a desired conversion by enzymatic means. Enzymes used in this process are free in the solution. Enzymes are known as biocatalysts that are unique in their function because of their vast diversity and structural complexity.