Novel selective carbohydrate oxidizing enzymes for targeted polymer and fiber modification (ENOX)

Funding: Academy of Finland
Collaboration: Research Professor Kristiina Kruus, Dr. Harry Boer, VTT, Finland;
FiDiPro Fellow Emma Master, Aalto University, Finland / University of Toronro, Canada
Project description:
The aim of the ENOX-project is to develop novel oxidative enzymes to selectively create reactive carbonyl and carboxyl functionalities within oligo- and polysaccharides. The target enzymes do not require expensive coenzymes and are able to combine the cheap and clean oxidant O2 with a high specificity and regioselectivity. The work will cover different enzyme types acting specifically on various hydroxyl groups in carbohydrates. The project is divided in four workpackages: 1. Substrate and assay development for HTP screening, 2. Screening of new carbohydrate-acting oxidases, 3. Development of new oxidases through protein engineering, 4. Evaluation of action and selective oxidation of oligo- and polysaccharides, and fibres, which will be carried out in a close collaboration of the consortium partners. The project will result in new biocatalysts for targeted modifications of polysaccharides and fibres, and will contribute to the future refining of biobased polymers to novel products.