Biotransformations
Biotransformations refer to the chemical modification of a compound by living organisms or their enzymes. This process is a cornerstone of biological chemistry and is utilized in various fields, including medicine, industry, and environmental science. Organisms, such as bacteria, fungi, and yeast, possess a diverse array of enzymes that can catalyze specific chemical reactions, often with high selectivity and efficiency. These reactions can include oxidation, reduction, hydrolysis, and conjugation, among others.
In pharmaceuticals, biotransformations are crucial for the synthesis of complex drug molecules, often making them more
The study of biotransformations also plays a significant role in bioremediation, where microorganisms are used to