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Preparation of Functional Silica Using a Bioinspired Method
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Biocatalytic Transformations of Silicon-the Other Group 14 Element
Nicholas S Sarai1, Benjamin J Levin1, John M Roberts2
1Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, 1200 East California Boulevard, Pasadena, California 91125, United States.
ACS Central Science
|July 8, 2021
Summary
Biocatalysis and organosilicon chemistry merging offers novel synthetic routes for valuable silicon compounds. Protein engineering can expand enzymatic capabilities for silicon transformations, enhancing current methods.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Organosilicon Chemistry
Background:
- Biocatalysts enable efficient, selective new-to-nature reactions.
- Organosilicon chemistry provides valuable synthetic transformations.
- Silicon is vital in biology (e.g., plants, diatoms) but not a known metabolite component.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the intersection of biocatalysis and organosilicon chemistry.
- To review silicon's biological role and relevant enzymes.
- To discuss potential for enzyme engineering in organosilicon transformations.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on biocatalysis and silicon chemistry.
- Analysis of enzymes acting on silicon-containing molecules.
- Discussion of protein engineering strategies for novel biocatalysts.
Main Results:
- Limited enzymes currently act directly on silicon centers.
- Protein engineering holds potential for creating new silicon-transforming enzymes.
- Biocatalysis can complement existing organosilicon synthetic methods.
Conclusions:
- Merging biocatalysis and organosilicon chemistry presents opportunities for synthesis and valorization.
- Enzyme engineering is key to unlocking biocatalytic potential in organosilicon chemistry.
- Further research can expand the use of enzymes in silicon-based chemistry.
