Name and Surname of the Supervisor: PhD Student Greta Mačiuitytė (Adviser Dr. Vytautas Petkevičius)
Institution (Company), Department: VU LSC Institute of Biochemistry, Department of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology
Preliminary Topic: Investigation of the Bioconversion of Aliphatic Alkenes Using Non-Heme Iron Monooxygenases
Short Description of the Internship Work: Epoxides are sought-after compounds that act as intermediates in the synthesis of various drugs, agricultural products, and chemicals. The production of epoxides through asymmetric alkene epoxidation would be an efficient synthesis method, characterized by high yields. However, chemical synthesis methods often face certain challenges in achieving selective epoxidation of unactivated/non-conjugated alkenes. Enzyme-based biocatalysis systems, considered "green" alternatives, are gaining increasing attention. Various oxygenases (also known as epoxidases) are capable of catalyzing epoxidation reactions under mild conditions, both regioselectively and stereoselectively.
This study aims to apply the non-heme iron monooxygenase system PmlABCDEF for converting aliphatic alkenes into corresponding epoxide products. The work will include the biosynthesis of the PmlABCDEF monooxygenase protein, cultivation of the host Pseudomonas putida KT2440, selection and optimization of bioconversion conditions, analysis of the resulting products (qualitative reactions, HPLC-MS, GC-MS, NMR), and purification (extraction, silica gel and FLASH chromatography). Additionally, stereospecificity studies (chiral GC-MS) and the chemical synthesis of epoxide standards will be conducted.
Applicants should have completed courses in organic chemistry, general chemistry, and biochemistry. Ideally, the candidate should be eager to master new working methods and demonstrate a strong interest in the chemical/biochemical life sciences field.
Qualification Requirements (Degree): BSc MSc
Application Deadline: 2024-12-01
Additional Comments: Priority is given to 2nd and 3rd year biochemist undergraduates and 1st year biochemist master's students. If interested, students from other study programs who have an expressed interest in the chemical/biochemical part of life sciences are also invited. Applicants should indicate why they want to do an internship on this topic and attach an information about the results of their studies.