Engineering of Transmembrane Alkane Monooxygenases to Improve a Key Reaction Step in the Synthesis of Polymer Precursor Tulipalin A.

This podcast details the engineering of transmembrane alkane monooxygenases (AlkB) to improve Tulipalin A synthesis. The research focuses on enhancing the hydroxylation of isoprenyl acetate, a crucial step for this polymer precursor. Through rational design and site-directed mutagenesis, AlkB variants with significantly improved activity were developed, while maintaining selectivity. The engineered enzyme is part of a novel biocatalytic cascade, representing a significant step towards sustainable production of Tulipalin A and expanding bio-based chemicals.