The evolution of DNA polymerases with novel activities

DNA and RNA polymerases have evolved in nature to function in specific environments with specific substrates. Thus, although the commercial availability of these enzymes has revolutionized the biotechnology industry, their applications are limited. The availability of polymerases that have unnatural properties would be of even greater utility. Towards this goal, several activity-based screening and selection approaches have been developed. Using these techniques, polymerases that synthesize a variety of different polymers, including those containing 2′-O-methyl-modified nucleotides or unnatural base pairs, have been evolved. These results suggest that polymerases tailored for any specific application could soon be available.