Properties of the urease enzyme as a component of self-healing concrete. A review

The object of research is the biochemical and molecular properties of urease as a key component of self-healing concrete. Method. The article analyzes data that demonstrate the importance of unique thermal stability, high catalytic activity and specificity of urease for biomineralization and creation of new building materials. Special attention is paid to summarizing data on the influence of post-translational modifications and environmental factors on the properties of enzymes, as well as the prospects for biotechnological improvement of ureases to expand their use in various industries, including improving the properties of concrete. Results. With distinctive properties such as thermal stability, high catalytic activity, and urea specificity, urease finds application in various fields of human activity, from medical diagnostics to microbiological cementation. The article provides an overview of the biochemical and molecular features of the urease enzyme that are relevant for use in building materials technologies.