Abstract: The present invention relates to mutations of a subtilisin gene which result in changes in the chemical characteristics of subtilisin enzymes. Mutations at specific nucleic acids of the subtilisin gene result in amino acid substitutions and consequently, altered enzyme function. Some of these mutant enzymes exhibit physical properties advantageous to industrial applications, particularly in the detergent industry, providing subtilisin which is more stable to oxidation, possesses greater protease activity, and exhibits improved washability.

Abstract: The present invention relates to mutations of the subtilisin gene, some of which result in changes in the chemical characteristics of subtilisin enzyme. Mutations are created at specific nucleic acids of the subtilisin gene and, in various specific embodiments, the mutant enzymes possess altered chemical properties including, but not limited to, increased stability to oxidation, augmented proteolytic activity, and improved washability. The present invention also relates, but is not limited to, the amino acid and DNA sequences for two proteases derived from Bacillus lentus variants, subtilisin 147 and subtilisin 309, as well as mutations of these genes and the corresponding mutant enzymes.