Synthesis of a new complex mimetic of polysaccharide lytic monooxygenase (LPMO) enzyme to catalyze oxidative hydrolysis reactions in polysaccharides

• Grant number: 25/00127-8
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: April 01, 2025
• End date: March 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry - Inorganic Chemistry
• Principal Investigator: Caterina Gruenwaldt Cunha Marques Netto
• Grantee: Larissa Moreno
• Host Institution: Centro de Ciências Exatas e de Tecnologia (CCET). Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCAR). São Carlos , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 23/09722-0 - Artificial HeROs (Heme-copper Robust Oxidases) for biomass degradation, AP.R

Abstract

The high efficiency observed in enzymatic catalysts drives the demand for techniques capable of replacing traditional methods, aiming for more sustainable and cost-effective processes. However, the instability of enzymes in non-physiological environments makes these processes less viable. In this context, enzyme mimics are identified as promising alternatives, as they can provide efficiency and selectivity comparable to enzymes in chemical reactions at a reduced cost.In oxidation reactions, one enzyme of great interest is the Polysaccharide Lytic Monooxygenase (LPMO), as the synergistic action of glycoside hydrolases and LPMO increases the conversion of polysaccharides into their monomers, aiding in biomass degradation processes. Given that biomass is among the potential sustainable energy sources due to its polysaccharide-rich chemical composition, it is essential to develop catalysts that enable the production of monosaccharides.Since the active site of LPMO consists of a copper ion coordinated to two histidine residues, its structure can be easily mimicked. Considering the efficiency of L-proline-derived complexes as LPMO mimics, this project proposes the synthesis of a complex derived from L-proline esterified with methyl pyridine and anthranilic acid. Additionally, we will evaluate the need for a carboxylic acid group coordinated to the copper center by synthesizing an alternative complex devoid of this function, replacing anthranilic acid with aniline. An increase in catalytic efficiency is expected if steric hindrance is the determining factor. (AU)