Isomerases

Enzymes that catalyze isomerization — rearranging a molecule’s structure without adding or removing atoms. The most famous food-industry example is glucose isomerase, which converts glucose to fructose in high-fructose syrup manufacture. By shifting molecular geometry, isomerases create new functional properties from familiar starting materials. Immobilized on carriers, they work continuously in packed-bed reactors, making large-scale syrup production economical. They also interconvert sugars in the manufacture of rare-sugar sweeteners. Protein engineering continues to broaden their industrial applications. Their precision makes them greener catalysts than harsh chemical alternatives.