ProfessorKevin O'Connor

I lead a research group in the area of biocatalysis and metabolic engineering. We focus on two major areas 1) biodegradable polymer synthesis by bacteria and 2) Enzymes as biocatalysts. Biodegradable polymer synthesis We have seen a growing interest in the manufacturing of materials that are sustainable and biodegradable. Our research group is investigating the ability of bacteria to synthesise biodegradable polymers with biotechnological potential, namely polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs). Our research focuses on the conversion of waste and bio-based resources to this type of biodegradable polymer using bacteria. The processing and application of biopolymers is undertaken in collaboration with Dr Ramesh Babu at TCD. Enzymes as biocatalysts Biological catalysts can offer certain advantages over traditional chemical catalysts through their high regiospecificity and sterospecificity. In addition they perform catalysis under mild conditions. We are investigating the ability of enzymes as cell free crude enzyme preparations, purified enzymes and whole cells expressing enzymes as biocatalysts for the synthesis of small molecules which have uses as drugs, drug synthons, and fine chemicals. We use protein engineering as a means to alter activity and design better biocatalysts. We also use protein engineering to understand the effect of amino acid changes on enzyme activity and affinity.