Looking Back

A Short History of the Discovery of Enzymes and How They Became Powerful Chemical Tools

Review (2020)

Authors

C.M. Heckmann University of Nottingham

Francesca Paradisi University of Bern, University of Nottingham

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External organisation

Enzymes Immobilization Green chemistry Protein engineering History of biocatalysis

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Published Date

2020

Language

English

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Abstract

Enzymatic approaches to challenges in chemical synthesis are increasingly popular and very attractive to industry given their green nature and high efficiency compared to traditional methods. In this historical review we highlight the developments across several fields that were necessary to create the modern field of biocatalysis, with enzyme engineering and directed evolution at its core. We exemplify the modular, incremental, and highly unpredictable nature of scientific discovery, driven by curiosity, and showcase the resulting examples of cutting-edge enzymatic applications in industry.