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Updated: Jan 4, 2026

A New Screening Method for the Directed Evolution of Thermostable Bacteriolytic Enzymes
Published on: November 7, 2012
On the catalytic mechanism of bacteriophage endolysins: Opportunities for engineering
Michael J Love1, Gayan S Abeysekera2, Andrew C Muscroft-Taylor3
1Biomolecular Interaction Centre and School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand; Institute of Environmental Science and Research, Christchurch, New Zealand.
Abstract:
Bacteriophage endolysins have the potential to be a long-term antibacterial replacement for antibiotics. The exogenous application of endolysins on some bacteria results in rapid cell lysis. The prospects for endolysins are furthered by the ability to engineer them; novel endolysins can be developed with optimised stability, specificity, and lytic function. But the success of endolysin engineering and application requires a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between the enzymes biochemical, biophysical and bacteriolytic properties. Here, we examine their catalytic mechanisms, opportunities for developing novel endolysins, and highlight areas where a better understanding would support their long-term success as antibacterial agents.
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