RESEARCH

Nature's catalysts

In Nature, enzymes catalyze various complex biochemical reactions in a very selective and specific manner. Enzymes are chemo-, regio- & stereoselective. Notably, enzyme-mediated reactions require mild and environmentally benign conditions. Enzymatic reactions adhere to many green chemistry principles. Currently, enzyme catalysis is proven to be an excellent alternative to several classical chemocatalysis that have been implemented in various industrial processes to produce pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics and agrochemicals. All these characteristics and advantages of enzyme catalysis inspired us to focus on the following area of research.

Our Interests

Utilization of the unique catalytic power of enzymes for chemical transformation to obtain the various useful chiral precursors, active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and fine chemicals

Designing tailor-made enzymes towards specific needs by employing structure-based protein engineering and directed evolution studies

Development of active enzyme cascades (Systems Biocatalysis Approach) by the combination of multiple enzymes in one-pot to obtain various important active pharmaceuticals

Exploring Photo-biocatalysis by combining the advantages of photocatalysis with enzyme catalysis, which in turn gives access to many promiscuous, non-natural reactions and even for more challenging chemical transformations