9712497 Klibanov The surprising observation that enzyme catalysis can be carried out in essentially nonaqueous systems has opened a major opportunity for biocatalysis. Dr. Klibanov has played a major role in this area. Apparently, little structure/activity work has been done in these systems. This proposal aims at studying the structure/activity relationships of crystalline (and sometimes crosslinked) enzymes in nonaqueous systems. The x-ray crystal structures of two model enzymes, as well as their intermediate complexes, will be elucidated and correlated with catalytic properties and stability. Reasons for diminished activity in non-aqueous solvents and for solvent effects on stereoselectivity will be sought. We believe that this work will have a significant impact on the economical production of important specialty chemicals such as chiral drugs and intermediate. This award is co- supported by the organic and macromolecular chemistry program. ***
