Polyhydroxyalkanoate Production Enzymes: a Survey and Biological Perspective

Abstract

Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) have attracted interest as bio-based, biodegradable biocompatible polymers. Researchers have accumulated a wide breadth of knowledge on the biosynthetic processes of these valuable polymers, with experts in the disciplines of microbiology, biochemistry, physics, medicine, and engineering contributing to the current state of knowledge of synthesis, production and application of PHA. An important perspective of PHA biosynthesis is the subset of microbial enzymes that are involved in producing this polymer and their many permutations. In this review, we survey the key enzymes involved in synthesis and homeostasis of all types of PHA. Emphasis is made on structure and function of enzymes and how enzymology has shaped knowledge of the PHA production pathway and ushered in new discoveries.

Keywords

• bioplastics
• polyhydroxyalkanoate
• enzymes
• granule associated proteins
• polymer biosynthesis
• PHA homeostasis