Three‐level hybrid modeling for systematic optimization of biocatalytic synthesis: α‐glucosyl glycerol production by enzymatic trans‐glycosylation from sucrose

Mechanism‐based kinetic models are rigorous tools to analyze enzymatic reactions, but their extension to actual conditions of the biocatalytic synthesis can be difficult. Here, we demonstrate (mechanistic‐empirical) hybrid modeling for systematic optimization of the sucrose phosphorylase‐catalyzed glycosylation of glycerol from sucrose, to synthesize the cosmetic ingredient α‐glucosyl glycerol (GG). The empirical model part was developed to capture nonspecific effects of high sucrose concentrations (up to 1.5 M) on microscopic steps of the enzymatic trans‐glycosylation mechanism. Based on verified predictions of the enzyme performance under initial rate conditions (Level 1), the hybrid model was expanded by microscopic terms of the reverse reaction to account for the full‐time course of GG synthesis (Level 2). Lastly (Level 3), the application of the hybrid model for comprehensive window‐of‐operation analysis and constrained optimization of the GG production (~250 g/L) was demonstrated. Using two candidate sucrose phosphorylases (from Leuconostoc mesenteroides and Bifidobacterium adolescentis), we reveal the hybrid model as a powerful tool of “process decision making” to guide rational selection of the best‐suited enzyme catalyst. Our study exemplifies a closing of the gap between enzyme kinetic models considered for mechanistic research and applicable in technologically relevant reaction conditions; and it highlights the important benefit thus realizable for biocatalytic process development.