Biocatalysis: Important considerations for testing and evaluation of biocatalysts

Dirk Tischler*, Giovanni Davide Barone, Jose Munoz-Munoz, John M. Woodley

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

Abstract

Selecting the appropriate mode of biocatalysis application is crucial for optimizing efficiency and sustainability. This chapter provides a comprehensive guide on key metrics to describe biocatalyst performance, including kinetic parameters such as reaction rates, cofactor requirements, dissociation constants (KD), maximum velocities (Vmax), turnover numbers (kcat), and Michaelis constants (KM). Additionally, it discusses biocatalysis metrics like turnover frequency (TOF), environmental factors (E-Factor), atom economy, productivities, and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). The chapter also explores application types, focusing on whole-cell and cell-free enzyme applications, and offers a practical guide on selecting the most suitable mode of application based on specific project requirements. By integrating these considerations, researchers can effectively harness biocatalysis for innovative and sustainable solutions in various industrial processes.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationMethods in Enzymology
PublisherAcademic Press Inc.
DOIs
Publication statusE-pub ahead of print - 25 Feb 2025

Publication series

NameMethods in Enzymology
ISSN (Print)0076-6879
ISSN (Electronic)1557-7988

Keywords

  • Biotransformation
  • Enzyme catalysis
  • Fermentation
  • Immobilization
  • Industrial biotechnology
  • Key metrics
  • Whole-cell catalysis

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