Modulation of Lipase Selectivity Through Conformational Engineering and Reaction Media: A Review

Lipase selectivity is a key factor in determining the efficiency, specificity, and applicability of lipases in various industrial processes. It is also a significant aspect in the theoretical understanding of enzymatic reactions and the design of improved biocatalysts through protein engineering. This paper presents a comprehensive review of strategies employed in conformational engineering and the selection of reaction media to modulate the selectivities of lipases. It examines various factors that influence conformational engineering, such as organic solvents, pH levels, ionic liquids, reaction temperatures, additives, and immobilization techniques. Additionally, the review analyzes the impact of reaction media, including the use of organic solvents, supercritical fluids, and ionic liquids and the means of energy transfer (microwave irradiation) on selectivity. Special emphasis is placed on the modulation of product selectivity in glycerolysis reactions by using ionic liquids as the reaction media. This review aims to provide insights for the design of enzymatic selective catalysis mediated by lipases and to lay the groundwork for understanding the mechanisms of selective catalysis at the molecular structural level. By exploring these strategies and their effects on lipase selectivity, the paper contributes to the advancement of more efficient and targeted enzymatic processes in various industrial applications.