The goal of this project is to develop new stereospecific chemical reactions using enzymes activated by light, known as photobiocatalysis. Photobiocatalysis combines the use of light with an enzyme to access new chemical reactions that are difficult or impossible to achieve with traditional methods. By using light to activate enzymes, this project aims to make chemical synthesis processes more efficient by reducing the number of steps needed and avoiding the use of harsh conditions. Enzymes are natural catalysts that operate under mild conditions and have a unique chiral environment, allowing them to selectively produce one of two mirror-image forms of a molecule (enantioselectivity). This makes them particularly useful for producing complex molecules, such as pharmaceuticals, which require high precision. The reactions developed in this project could replace traditional chemical processes, leading to more sustainable and environmentally friendly chemical production.
The project roadmap involves identifying enzymes that can catalyze reactions using light and optimizing these enzymes. By expanding the capabilities of enzymes like Fatty Acid Photodecarboxylase (FAP), GMC oxidoreductase and other enzymes such as lactate monooxygenase (LMO), the project aims to provide more efficient and sustainable synthetic pathways. The research contributes to the broader objective of enhancing the use of biocatalysis in chemical manufacturing, addressing the need for greener, more efficient production methods that align with EU sustainability goals.
One of the key aspects of this project is to explore enzyme promiscuity in the context of photochemical activation. Enzyme promiscuity refers to the ability of enzymes to catalyze reactions beyond their natural substrate range. By using light to activate these enzymes, we aim to unlock new reactivity that is not typically accessible under standard biological conditions. This approach not only expands the scope of enzyme-catalyzed transformations but also provides a means to discover new synthetic pathways that are more selective and environmentally benign.The project builds on the promising activity observed in enzymes such as FAP, which naturally catalyzes decarboxylation reactions under light activation. We have been able to develop radical addition reactions with FAP and LMO, which are valuable in creating carbon-carbon bonds, a critical step in many chemical syntheses.
The integration of photobiocatalysis into synthetic chemistry represents a significant advancement over conventional chemical methods. Traditional chemical synthesis often requires high temperatures, extreme pH, and toxic reagents, which contribute to environmental pollution and increased energy consumption. In contrast, light-activated enzymatic processes occur under mild conditions, reducing both the energy requirements and the environmental footprint of chemical production. This aligns well with the EU's commitment to sustainable industrial processes and the development of green technologies.
The impact of this project extends beyond the laboratory, as it aims to contribute to the development of sustainable manufacturing processes. By demonstrating the feasibility of using light-activated enzymes for complex chemical syntheses, we hope to encourage the adoption of biocatalysis in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries. This would not only reduce the reliance on traditional, energy-intensive chemical processes but also provide a pathway for the production of high-value compounds in a more sustainable and cost-effective manner.
