Enzymatic and chemoenzymatic approaches to polymer synthesis

The function of many specialized polymers calls for properties such as chirality and biodegradability. The stereo-, positional- and chemo-selectivities characteristic of enzymatic catalysis are highly desirable attributes for incorporation into strategies for synthesizing such polymers. Enzymes alone, or in combination with chemical synthesis (i.e. chemoenzymatic methodologies), are finding increased use in the synthesis of novel materials. Potential applications include water-absorbents, hydrogels, biodegradable materials, chiral adsorbents, liquid crystals and permselective membranes.