The group focuses on the use and development of biocatalysts in synthetic organic chemistry as a "green" alternative for existing chemical procedures.
We discover new enzymes, modify others and test their potential use in novel synthetic procedures.
Suitable expression systems with convenient hosts are developed for enzymes of interest.
After purification and characterization the recombinant enzymes are subjected to screening of their substrate specificity, regioselectivity, enantioselectivity and their potential application.
Directed evolution is used as a tool to optimize and improve selected enzymes.
In general organic conversions with enzymes are performed in aqueous media.
The research of the group is carried out in the Van't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS) and is part of the theme Biomolecular Synthesis.
It has also ties with theme Catalysis. The biocatalysis group is housed in the former Organic Chemistry Laboratory.
Research projects are available for students with a focus on the molecular properties of the recombinant enzymes and theirs use in organic synthesis.
For more information on a specific project contact R.Wever@uva.nl or other staff members of the research group.
