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Light-Triggered Inactivation of Enzymes with Photothermal Nanoheaters
Sebastian A Thompson1,2, Sureyya Paterson1, Marwa M M Azab1
1WestCHEM, Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde, Technology and Innovation Centre, 99 George Street, Glasgow, G1 1RD, Scotland, UK.
Researchers developed a new way to turn off enzymes using near-infrared light. This method uses plasmonic heat from nanorods to selectively denature enzymes without harming surrounding biological materials.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Nanotechnology
- Biophysics
Background:
- Enzyme activity is crucial in biological processes but controlling it precisely remains a challenge.
- Existing methods for enzyme inactivation can lack specificity or damage cellular components.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce a novel, on-demand method for enzyme inactivation.
- To achieve selective enzyme denaturation using external stimuli.
Main Methods:
- Enzymes were immobilized on nanorods.
- Near-infrared (NIR) light irradiation was used to activate the nanorods.
- Plasmonic heating generated by the nanorods was employed for enzyme inactivation.
Main Results:
- The method successfully inactivated nanorod-bound enzymes upon NIR irradiation.
- Selective denaturation was achieved, preserving other proteins and cell membranes.
- The process demonstrated a universal applicability for enzyme inactivation.
Conclusions:
- NIR-triggered plasmonic heating offers a precise and non-destructive approach for enzyme control.
- This technique has potential applications in various fields requiring controlled biochemical reactions.
- The universal nature of the method broadens its utility in biological research and biotechnology.
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