Benefits of Enzyme Kinetics Modelling*

Mathematical models, especially when coupled with modern computer techniques, prove to be very effective in searching for optimal operating conditions and creating an optimal microenvironment for the biocatalyst in order to optimise productivity. Therefore, the study of the theoretical model for the enzyme reaction system is of interest for the industrial application of the biocatalyst. Theoretical modelling of the enzyme kinetics and the reactors can be used to find optimal operation points and to increase our knowledge about the process. The model usually contains information on the particular biocatalytic reactions. It also includes the mass balance equations in the reactor. The model has to be effective for a wide range of variations of the internal process variables. The benefits of enzyme kinetics modelling are demonstrated in this review with some examples. These are: continuous (R)-mandelic acid production in the enzyme membrane reactor, enzymatic dipeptide synthesis, the synthesis of L-tert-leucine, the synthesis of CMP-Neu5Ac, the synthesis of L-erythrulose, the resolution of racemic alcohol and the synthesis of trisaccharide catalysed by a multi-enzyme system.