Champaign, Illinois - A team of researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has developed a novel platform that leverages artificial intelligence (AI), automated robotics, and synthetic biology to dramatically accelerate the process of enzyme engineering.
This innovative platform is designed to rapidly improve the functionality and efficiency of enzymes, which are essential catalysts in a wide range of industrial applications, including the production of biofuels, pharmaceuticals, and sustainable materials. The AI component of the platform predicts the function of enzymes and identifies beneficial mutations that can enhance their performance. Automated robotics then perform rapid protein synthesis and testing, allowing researchers to quickly assess the impact of these mutations.
The system has demonstrated a significant boost in enzyme performance and offers a user-friendly interface, making it accessible to researchers with varying levels of expertise. Its broad applicability across multiple industries highlights its potential to revolutionize enzyme engineering and accelerate scientific discovery.