Enzymatic electrosynthesis as an emerging electrochemical synthesis platform

Enzymatic electrosynthesis (EES), combining enzymatic catalysis and electrochemical techniques for the production of desired chemicals, has gained prominence because of its use of clean electrical energy inputs and highly specific enzyme biocatalysts and its capability of performing complicated reactions with high yield. In this review, we summarize the most recent state-of-the-art advances in EES and recognize that the research emphasis has shifted from CO2 reduction to the utilization of N-2 and the synthesis of high-value products. Particular attention is given to the energy sources for powering EES, including direct electrical energy, light energy, and chemical energy obtained from self-powered biosystems. Enzyme-based hybrid systems integrated with microbial or chemical approaches are also presented. Finally, key challenges and future directions of EES are discussed briefly.