Expected developments in biological production of steroid
compounds range from the identification of novel and improvement
of existing biocatalysts to the improvement of
the biotransformation process.
The recent technological developments, associated with
combinatorial biocatalysis will allow faster and wider
screening of new steroids, to ultimately generate libraries
of therapeutically relevant compounds. Novel steroid-like
compounds are also increasing the field of their applications.
Non-aqueous biocatalysis will benefit from the knowledge
gathered on the response mechanisms of microbial cells
to the presence of organic solvents. The understanding of these defense mechanisms, combined with recombinant
DNA technology may lead to the development of highly
effective and stable biocatalysts for use in non-conventional
media. Genetic manipulation is expected to lead to biocatalysts
with constitutive, rather than inducible expression of
activity, as well as with enhanced activity levels. Directed
evolution and DNA shuffling rapidly emerging technologies
can lead to the development of tailored, highly selective,
enzyme activities, able to perform the intended bioconversion
in virtually any suitable medium. The development
of efficient methods for in vitro coenzyme recycling will
expand the use of enzyme preparations in steroid bioconversions.
Rational design of fermentation/bioconversion
media, combined with the developments in process monitoring
may lead to the implementation of robust, highly
effective biotransformation processes.