Applied Biocatalysis

The purpose of this course is to get insight in the possibilities and challenges concerning the application of biocatalysts for the preparation or conversion of chemicals and (bio)polymers. The biocatalyst (enzyme) is usually the most expensive part in the process, so it is often immobilised to enable its reuse. The course therefore starts with lectures on the chemistry of immobilisation and on the effects that immobilisation has on enzyme kinetics. Also, other classes of biocatalysts, such as engineered enzymes, artificial metalloenzymes, and enzyme mimics (MOFs and COFs) will be discussed during (tutorial) lectures. The course then continues with a computer practicum and concludes with 3 PGO cases, in which students in small groups study three different problems. Downstream processing and economical aspects should be addressed in all three cases.

• Evaluate and understand the effects of immobilisation, environmental effects and changes in kinetic parameters on the kinetics and selectivity of enzymes

• Analyse literature reports on new classes of biocatalyst and make decisions on the pros and cons of these systems

• Analyse literature reports on the biocatalytic synthesis of fine chemicals, and make decisions on the pros and cons of these routes

• Analyse literature on the use of enzymes for the production and/or conversion of (bio)polymers

• Analyse literature on the use of enzymes for the biotechnological production of biobased products from lignocellulosic by-products

• Evaluate the factors that determine cost effectiveness in industrial biocatalytic processes

• Oral test (0%) Oral presentation of the PGO case 1,
• Written test with open questions (50%)
• Assignment report (45%) reports case 1, 2 and 3. If the report is not sufficient, resubmission is possible after consultation with the case coordinator. Late submission and resubmitted assignments will be assessed in the respective resit period.
• Assignment report (5%) Assignment for computer practical. If the report is not sufficient, resubmission is possible after consultation with the case coordinator. Late submission and resubmitted assignments will be assessed in the respective resit period.

ZSS06100 Laboratory Safety BIC20806 Protein Biochemistry; ORC12903 Organic Chemistry 2.

• Lecture notes: Applied Biocatalysis (to be ordered at the WUR supplier).