Genetically-engineered mammalian cytochromes P-450 from yeasts--potential applications.

High-activity forms of mammalian cytochromes P-450 have now been expressed in yeast. Some members of this superfamily of enzymes detoxify drugs, whilst others activate carcinogens, or interconvert steroid hormones. Applications for these previously unavailable forms of cytochrome P-450 can now be developed, including the biosynthesis of hydroxylated compounds, bioanalysis and tests for hazardous substrates of these enzymes, and therapeutic detoxification devices. All of these applications could use protein-engineered, or protein-tailored enzymes in immobilized form.