Module

Voraussetzungen

Inhalte

An instructive and comprehensive overview of the current enzyme applications in the so-called White, Red and Green Biotechnology. Basic Tools: Biocatalysts, Advantages & Disadvantages of Enzyme Processes, Aspects of Enzyme Application, Protein Structure, Enzyme Classification, Enzyme Kinetics, Sources of Enzymes, Search and Screening for New Biocatalysts, Protein Engineering, Enzyme Production, Advanced Tool: Enzymes in Food Industry (e.g. Baking, Brewing, Dairy, Saccharification), Enzymes in Non-Food Applications (e.g. Detergents, Pulp and Paper, Textile Industry), Enzymes in Chemical Production Processes (Organic Synthesis, Chiral Molecules, Drugs), Perspectives of Enzyme Exploration and Application, Current Research Activities (e.g. National and European Research Programs), New/Own Research Activities (e.g. Fungal Oxidoreductases for Industrial Processes, Biocatalysts for Refinement of Renewable Polymers) Scientific Seminar: present and discuss published current experimental findings and contemporary issues

Lernziele

The use of catalysts, and particularly of their biological version (enzymes), has recently been the subject of increased debate in research, technology and environmental policy. Enzyme technology is regarded as a key technology for a sustainable future; it renders possible the manufacturing of innovative products (e.g. pharmaceuticals, fine chemicals, flavors, food and feed ingredients) and opens new doors for the application of biological agents in chemical processes, which leads to positive environmental effects and energy savings. Enzyme technology has a great potential for breaking down the boundaries between individual scientific disciplines (biotechnology, chemistry, microbiology, etc.) and between fundamental and applied research. Aims of this teaching unit are - to provide a basic knowledge of relevant protein structures, to acquire an understanding of the principles by which enzymes catalyse biochemical reactions, and - to provide a comprehensive overview of enzyme applications to introduce economic and sustainable goals associated with enzyme technologies, historical background and modern approaches of enzyme application (e.g. nanobiotechnology, biofuels, protein production, extremophiles, biopharmaceutical production, microbial natural products). For students the lecture and seminar will provide an understanding of scientific principles and will provide practice of advanced white biotechnology (professional competences) and its exploitation in commercial practice (methodic competences) for get individual orientation skills e.g. concerning an career as scientist, PhD studend or to understand how to create and manage a biotech business).

Prüfungsleistung

• Requirements: Successful participation at the seminar including a 30 min presentation and 15 min discussion. • Final written examination (120 min)

Bemerkungen

The module is only offered in the winter semester.