Molecular recognition and mechanism of action of a PETase

We are investigating the reaction mechanism of a PETase, an enzyme capable of hydrolyzing polyethylene terephthalate (PET) using a QM/MM approach (umbrella sampling).

In addition, by means of volume-based metadynamics, our aim is to understand how the polymer is recognized by the enzyme and how it enters the active site. This information would enable us to propose tailored, new enzyme with a better activity.