Decoding the distribution, structure-function-redox potential relationship and recent advances in fungal laccases: a...

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Enzymology

Background:

• Laccases are multicopper oxidases with diverse ecological roles and industrial applications.
• Fungal laccases, particularly from Ascomycota and Basidiomycota, are of significant interest due to high redox potentials and lignin degradation capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a systematic analysis of fungal laccases, covering their genomic distribution, phylogenetic relationships, and structural organization.
• To investigate the catalytic mechanisms, structure-function correlations, and post-translational modifications of fungal laccases.
• To review recent advancements in laccase engineering and the application of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in enzyme optimization.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review using Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, and ScienceDirect.
• Analysis of genomic distribution, phylogenetic affiliation, and structural organization of laccase genes.
• Exploration of catalytic mechanisms, structure-activity relationships, and post-translational modifications.

Main Results:

• Detailed investigation into the genomic and phylogenetic aspects of fungal laccases.
• Exploration of enzyme structure-function correlations, including redox potential and glycosylation impacts.
• Overview of advanced engineering strategies and the emerging role of AI/ML in laccase development.

Conclusions:

• Fungal laccases possess significant potential for industrial biocatalysis, driven by their unique properties and amenability to engineering.
• AI and ML offer powerful tools for understanding and enhancing laccase performance, paving the way for tailored enzyme solutions.
• Continued research into fungal laccase structure, function, and engineering is crucial for unlocking their full industrial potential.