Directed protein engineering

Nucleic acids are the molecules of the genetic apparatus. They direct protein biosynthesis in the body and are the raw materials of genetic technology (see Genetic engineering). Most often polynucleotides are synthesized microbiologicaHy, or at least enzymatically, but chemical synthesis is possible. 

Protein engineering is now routinely used to modify protein molecules either via site-directed mutagenesis or by combinatorial methods. Factors that are Important for the stability of proteins have been studied, such as stabilization of a helices and reducing the number of conformations in the unfolded state. Combinatorial methods produce a large number of random mutants from which those with the desired properties are selected in vitro using phage display. Specific enzyme inhibitors, increased enzymatic activity and agonists of receptor molecules are examples of successful use of this method. 

Hamamatsu, N., Aita, T., Nomiya, Y. et al. (2005) Biased mutation-assembling an efficient method for rapid directed evolution through simultaneous mutation accumulation. Protein Engineering Design Selection, 18, 265-271. 

Protein engineering chimeragenesis and site-directed mutagenesis... 

Protein Engineering Chimeragenesis and Site-Directed Mutagenesis. 423... 

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