Engineering enzyme variants is crucial for several reasons:
Enhanced Catalytic Efficiency: By improving the enzyme's ability to convert substrates into products, we can increase the overall efficiency of the catalytic process. Substrate Specificity: Modifying enzymes to act on specific substrates can lead to more selective and targeted reactions, reducing unwanted by-products. Thermal Stability: Engineered enzymes can be made more stable at higher temperatures, which is beneficial for industrial processes that operate under extreme conditions. Solvent Tolerance: Enhancing the enzyme's ability to function in non-aqueous solvents expands its utility in various chemical processes. Environmental Impact: Using engineered enzymes can reduce the need for harsh chemicals and lower energy consumption, contributing to greener and more sustainable processes.
