Systems And Methods For Altering Rates Of Enzymatic Processes

Abstract

The various embodiments of the present invention relate generally to compositions, systems, and methods for altering rates of catalysis. More particularly, the various embodiments of the present invention are directed toward compositions, systems, and methods for enzymatic hydrolysis of polysaccharides, such as cellulose and starch. An aspect of the present invention comprises a method for altering the rate of conversion of a substrate into a product comprising: providing a substrate in a carrier; mixing a reactant and a co-factor with the carrier to form a substantially homogeneous mixture of the reactant, the co-factor, and the substrate in the carrier; and reacting the reactant with the substrate in the presence of the co- factor to convert at least a portion of the substrate into the product, wherein the reaction rate of the reactant with the substrate in the presence of the co-factor is different than the reaction rate of the reactant with the substrate in the absence of the co-factor.