P38: Combinatorial application of the laccase-mediator system for the selective oxidation of lignin model compounds

Identifying suitable reaction conditions remains an important task in the development of practical enzyme catalysts.  Laccases play an important role in the biological break down of lignin and have great potential in the deconstruction of lignocellulosic feedstocks.  We examined 16 laccases, both commercially prepared and crude extracts, for their ability to oxidize veratryl alcohol in the presence of various solvents and mediators.  This study will describe the activity these fungal enzymes using a laccase-mediated system in the oxidation of several model substrates.  We tested the enzymes in a combinatorial fashion with 30 mediators, as well as different solvents and at varying temperatures and pHs, and achieved near quantitative yields in the oxidation of veratryl alcohol to veratrylaldehyde.  The application of the laccase-mediator system for the modification of lignin model compounds will also be discussed.