Rational redesign of Candida antarctica lipase B for the ring opening polymerization of D,D-lactide

Based on molecular modelling, the enzyme Candida antarctica lipase B was redesigned as a catalyst for the ring opening polymerization of D, D-lactide. Two mutants with 90-fold increased activity as compared to the wild-type enzyme were created. In a preparative synthesis of poly(D,D-lactide) the mutants greatly improved the rate and the degree of polymerization.