Synthesis of Polymeric Microcapsule Arrays and Their Use for Enzyme Immobilization
Abstract
Immobilized enzymes are used in bioreactors and biosensors. Current methods for immobilizing enzymes include adsorption or covalent attachment to a support, microencapsulation and entrapment within a membrane/film or gel. The ideal enzyme immobilization method would (1) Employ mild chemical conditions; (2) Allow for large quantities of enzyme to be immobilized; (3) Provide a large surface area for enzyme/substrate contact within a small total volume; (4) Minimize barriers to mass transport of substrate and product;and (5) Provide a chemically and mechanically robust system. This report describes a new method for enzyme immobilization that satisfies all of these criteria. We have developed a template-based synthetic method that yields hollow polymeric microcapsules of uniform diameter and length. These microcapsules are arranged in a high density array in which the individual capsules protrude from a surface like the bristles of a brush. We have developed procedures for filling these microcapsules with high concentrations of enzymes. The enzyme-loaded microcapsule arrays function as enzymatic bioreactors in both aqueous solution and organic solvents. Enzyme immobilization, Microcapsules, Polypyrrole.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1994
- Accession Number
- ADA279125
Entities
People
- Charles R. Martin
- Ranjani Parthasarathy
Organizations
- Colorado State University