Optimization of a small laccase by active-site redesign.

Small but faster: A small laccase from Streptomyces coelicolor (SLAC) has been engineered by structure-based design and site-directed mutagenesis to improve the activity on commercially relevant substrates. The variants generated showed up to 40-fold increased efficiency on 2,6-dimethoxyphenol and the ability to use mediators with considerably higher redox potentials (methylsyringate and TEMPO).