Biocatalysis: Fundamentals and Solvent Parameters

Abstract

Biocatalysis involves the use of one or more enzymes to catalyze chemical reactions. Compared to conventional methods, biocatalysis has advantages such as high stereo-, regio-, and chemoselectivity, efficient catalysis, both complex and straightforward transformations, low rate of by-product formation, inexpensive refining and purification (uncomplicated), mild reaction conditions, and reduced impact on the environment by reducing waste production. To have these advantages, the solvent character of the enzyme should be optimally determined. Thus, all the advantages of biocatalysis are utilized. In this review, it has been tried to present the parameters that will provide optimum conditions for biocatalysis. Biocatalysis, which facilitates many disciplines, is the most popular subject in the catalysis field due to its unique facilities and still undiscovered features. © 2021 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.