Dr. Chaiyen’s research interests are in the broad areas of enzyme catalysis, enzyme engineering, systems biocatalysis, metabolic engineering and synthetic biology. Her group studies flavin-dependent, PLP-dependent, redox and aldolase enzymes. They have contributed significantly to the understanding of many fundamental aspects of these systems including mechanisms of oxygen activation by flavoenzymes, reduced flavin transfer between proteins, oxygenation, oxidation, halogenation and dehalogention by flavin-dependent enzymes. In addition to developing deep insights into enzymatic mechanisms, they also focus on discovering new enzymatic functions and re-routing of metabolic networks.
A signature and unique approach typically employed by Chaiyen’s group is their integration of mechanistic enzymology – especially redox and flavin-dependent enzymes – with semi-rational, mechanism-guided enzyme engineering. Their deep understanding of enzymatic mechanisms informs the design and optimization of biocatalysts or engineered cells. This rational guided enzyme engineering has resulted in several successful enzyme and metabolic engineering programs focused on efficient resource utilization.
Chaiyen’s group is also dedicated to translating scientific discoveries into real-world applications, with a strong focus on sustainability. Their work in enzyme engineering, biocatalysis and synthetic biology supports the development of technologies for green chemistry, food safety, circular economy (e.g. biowaste and CO2 utilization), biohydrogen production, biosensors and bioimaging.
To further this mission, they have collaborated with private sector partners and established two startups: Enzmart Biotech (2016) and BioSynThai Biotech (2020). Notable successes include the co-development of SUZDEE (Sustainable Zerowaste Digestant for Well-being) digestant tank with Thanyaporn Wongnate’s group. The technology is ready for scaling and broader adoption, and is being implemented through the startup GreenGen Biotechnology
The group also recently developed LUMOS (Luminescence-related Measurement of Specific Detection), a technology which enables on-site testing of pesticide contamination in food and water samples. As part of a health risk preventive program, LUMOS technology was deployed to detect pesticide residues in drinking water in Pongsanook Village, Nan province in Northern Thailand. LUMOS is also being used to screen for pesticide-free produce, helping to strengthen food safety in Thailand and potentially other developing countries.
Read more about Pimchai Chaiyen’s Biography and work in
Chaiyen P. Pimchai Chaiyen’s biography. Biophysical Reviews 2022; Jun;14:613-7.