Properties and biotechnological applications of halohydrin dehalogenases: current state and future perspectives

Halohydrin dehalogenases (HHDHs) are lyases that catalyze the cleavage of carbon-halogen bond of halohydrins. They also can catalyze the reverse reaction in the presence of nucleophiles such as cyanide, azide, and nitrite ions. HHDHs have been recognized as the ideal tools for the degradation of various halogenated environmental pollutants. Moreover, they can be used as biocatalysts for the kinetic resolution of halohydrins and epoxides, and for the preparation of various substituted alcohols. This review is mainly focused on the current status of research on HHDHs, highlighting the production, characterization, structures and mechanism, protein engineering, and biotechnological applications of HHDHs.