Enzymatic Engineering

Students must have knowledge of structural Biochemistry, namely the structure, function and properties of proteins and Chemical and Biological Reactors, mass balance of reactors and modes of operation.

Lecture (T) classes are expository using a PowerPoint slides projection. In practical (TP) classes, after a brief theoretical introduction, the different chapters exercise sheets are solved. Students are encouraged to participate with questions and comments during both lecture and practical classes. There will be classes for the preparation, presentation and discussion of seminars prepared by the students.

The learning objectives in this course is to provide students with the ability to: i) define the role of enzymes in biotechnological applications; ii) describe the properties and functions of enzymes; iii) identify the types of enzymatic catalysis mechanisms; iv) describe the biocatalysis process in unconventional means; v) model the enzyme kinetics; vi) identify the main types of enzyme inhibition; vii) determine the effect of enzyme immobilization on their kinetics; viii) model the main types of reactors with immobilized enzymes.

1. Enzymes properties Classification and nomenclature. Specificity of enzymes. Enzyme catalysis mechanisms.

2. Kinetics and enzymatic stability. Michaelis-Menten model. Alternative and complementary models. Graphical determination of kinetic constants. Enzymatic activity and stability. Effect of pH and temperature on enzyme kinetics. Types of enzyme inhibition.

3. Immobilization of enzymes Support media types and immobilization techniques. Effects on the enzymatic properties and kinetics.

4. Biocatalysis in non-conventional systems Biocatalysis in aqueous systems, organic solvents, ionic liquids, supercritical fluids, solid-solid systems and liquid-solid systems.

5. Reactors with immobilized enzymes Classification. Main types of reactors with immobilized enzymes and respective kinetic models.

6. Enzyme technology main industrial applications of enzymes. Biosensors and enzymatic clinical diagnostics. Enzymes for industrial, pharmaceutical, food and environmental use.

NAO

Recommended bibliography:

1. J.M.S. Cabral, M.R. Aires-Barros, M. Gama. (2003). Engenharia Enzimática. Lidel – edições técnicas, Lda. (6-9-56 (ISEC) – 14449).

2. M.M. Fonseca, J.A. Teixeira. (2007). Reatores Biológicos: fundamentos e aplicações. Lidel-edições técnicas, Lda. (6-9-54 (ISEC) – 14447).

Complementary bibliography:

1. A.S. Bommarius, B.R. Riebel. (2004). Biocatalysis. Wiley-VCH.

2. J.M. Lee. (2001). Biochemical Engineering. Prentice Hall.

3. L, Hilterhaus, A. Liese, U, Kettling, G. Antranikian. (2016). Applied Biocatalysis: from fundamental science to industrial applications. Wiley-VCH.