Chapter 19 - Laccases: catalytic and functional attributes for robust biocatalysis

Abstract

Enzyme-driven biocatalytic reactions are highly specific and regio- and stereoselective, and thus appraised as “greener and cleaner” approaches over the use of conventional chemical counterparts. Enzyme-based biocatalytic processes offer many advantages such as low energy input, nontoxicity, ability to operate under mild aqueous conditions, and reduced amount of sludge generation. Moreover, enzymes can be applied to treat an extensive range of environmental pollutants in a more promising way following sustainability and green chemistry principles. In this avenue, laccases (E.C 1.10.3.2) are versatile multicopper oxidases that have the tremendous potential to oxidize a broad spectrum of organic compounds with or without low molecular weight mediators. The trait that laccase obviates the requirement of hydrogen peroxide to oxidize the substrates makes it superior to other oxidases and peroxidases. Therefore scientists and researchers have rekindled their attention during the last years to exploit such a fascinating class of enzymes in the novel arena like environmental bioremediation. This chapter illustrates a comprehensive overview of the unique biocatalytic characteristics, mode of action, production, and purification of microbial laccases. In addition, the immobilization of fungal laccases by different technologies to improve their catalytic features for environmental remediation purposes is also discussed.