Different types of enzymes such as lipases, several phosphatases, dehydrogenases, oxidases, amylases and others are well suited for the reactions in SC-CO(2). The stability and the activity of enzymes exposed to carbon dioxide under high pressure depend on enzyme species, water content in the solution and on the pressure and temperature of the reaction system. The three-dimensional structure of enzymes may be significantly altered under extreme conditions, causing their denaturation and consequent loss of activity. If the conditions are less adverse, the protein structure may be largely retained. Minor structural changes may induce an alternative active protein state with altered enzyme activity, specificity and stability.

Institute of Experimental Botany AS CR Isotope Laboratory Vídenská 1083 142 20 Prague 4 Krc Czech Republic

Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry AS CR Flemingovo námestí 2 166 10 Prague 6 Dejvice Czech Republic

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