Microbial amidases: Characterization, advances and biotechnological applications

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry and Biotechnology
• Enzymology
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Amidases (EC 3.5.1.4) are hydrolase biocatalysts crucial for stereo-selective synthesis and bioremediation.
• They are classified by sequence and substrate specificity, with Signature amidases and nitrilase superfamily amidases exhibiting distinct catalytic residues and substrate ranges.
• Recent research highlights their role in degrading toxic amides in polymers, insecticides, and food, expanding biodegradation potential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in microbial amidases (EC 3.5.1.4).
• To focus on enzyme distribution, gene mining, stability, protein engineering, reusability, and biocatalytic applications.
• To highlight their significance in organic synthesis and biodegradation of amide-containing pollutants.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent scientific literature on microbial amidases.
• Analysis of advancements in protein engineering and heterologous gene expression.
• Examination of gene mining methodologies and enzyme characterization techniques.

Main Results:

• Protein engineering has improved amidase catalytic efficiency, stability, and selectivity.
• Heterologous expression of thermophilic amidase genes yields industrially relevant, stable enzymes.
• Amidase-mediated degradation is effective for amide-containing pollutants in soil and aquatic environments.

Conclusions:

• Microbial amidases are versatile biocatalysts with expanding applications in synthesis and environmental remediation.
• Ongoing research in protein engineering and gene discovery continues to enhance their industrial utility.
• Amidase technology offers sustainable solutions for both organic synthesis and biodegradation challenges.