Polymeric Microcapsule Arrays.
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.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 24, 1995
- Accession Number
- ADA291937
Entities
People
- Charles R. Martin
- Ranjani V. Parthasarathy
Organizations
- Colorado State University