We study the structure and function of enzymes with potential biotechnological applications. To this end we use a multidisciplinary approach that includes structural analysis, to solve the protein three-dimensional structure; random and rationally driven gene mutation, to modify enzyme properties; in silico mining of enzyme with specific properties from protein sequence databases. Enzymes with selected properties can be used as such or incorporated into zymoactive materials or genetically modified organisms.
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant global public health challenge, with a growing impact on human, animal, and environmental ecosystems. Pathogens such as Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Listeria monocytogenes present critical threats to food safety. The overuse of chemical disinfectants has exacerbated resistance issues, creating environmental and health risks. This problem is further intensified by increasingly stringent regulations, such as European mandates aimed at reducing chemical residues in the food industry to protect consumers and the environment.
European regulations, including REACH (Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006) and CLP (Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008), are placing growing pressure on businesses to minimize the use of hazardous chemicals and adopt more sustainable practices.
The food industry faces significant challenges in meeting international standards, such as those set by the EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) and the European Union's Strategy for Sustainable Food Systems. These initiatives encourage the adoption of safe, sustainable solutions. Simultaneously, consumer and market demand for responsible practices is driving the transition away from traditional chemical disinfectants toward innovative technologies like enzymatic disinfectants.
Enzymatic disinfectants provide an effective and biodegradable alternative. They not only comply with environmental regulations but also mitigate risks associated with toxic chemical handling, ensuring food safety and promoting sustainability in the food industry (Talens-Perales et al., 2023; Talens-Perales et al., 2024).
References
Talens-Perales, D., Nicolau-Sanus, M., Marín-Navarro, J., Polaina, J., & Daròs, J.-A. (2023). Production in Nicotiana benthamiana of a thermotolerant glucose oxidase that shows enzybiotic activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Current Research in Biotechnology. Elsevier BV. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.crbiot.2023.100148.
Talens-Perales, D., Daròs, J.-A., Polaina, J., & Marín-Navarro, J. (2024, December 28). Synergistic Enzybiotic Effect of a Bacteriophage Endolysin and an Engineered Glucose Oxidase Against Listeria. Biomolecules. MDPI AG. http://doi.org/10.3390/biom15010024.
