2: Biocatalysis Basics and Principles

This chapter provides an outline of biocatalysis principles with a basic introduction to enzymes. The structure and properties of enzymes are initially discussed, followed by the production of enzymes and how chemists can access different preparations, such as commercial screening panels or samples from culture collections. A brief description is also given of how proteins are produced in cells, before the potential advantages of enzymes over more traditional chemical catalysts are discussed. Some of the practical aspects of using enzymes as catalysts are covered, including using isolated enzymes, immobilised enzymes or whole cells, and considerations for co-factor recycling if applicable. The chapter concludes with a brief consideration of methods to improve the properties of enzymes through the process of protein engineering and directed evolution of enzymes. Methods of high-throughput screening to enable directed evolution are also highlighted and discussed.