| abstract |
Variants of the transglutaminase enzyme of Streptomyces mobaraensis are provided. The disclosed variants exhibit at least about 2-fold increased enzymatic activity versus the wild-type enzyme. Methods and compositions are provided for biocidal applications of use and for covalently binding small organic molecules to a protein or material of interest. Methods are provided for increasing the self-life of products, such as personal care, household and industrial products, by incorporating an effective amount of the disclosed variant enzymes into the product. The transglutaminase variants may also be used to covalently bind functional ingredients, such as UV-blocking molecules, dyes, or pigments to proteins. The transglutaminase enzymes and functional ingredients may be incorporated into a cosmetic formulation for modifying skin, hair, or nail proteins or skin-derived proteins, such as collagen, keratin, and/or elastin. |