Virus-like particles nanoreactors: from catalysis towards bio-applications

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology and Nanotechnology
• Catalysis
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Virus-like particles (VLPs) are naturally occurring, self-assembled supramolecular structures.
• VLPs possess advantageous properties such as nanoscale precision, monodispersity, and high stability.
• These characteristics make VLPs suitable for use as nanocarriers in various applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current progress of virus-like particles (VLPs)-based nanoreactors.
• To explore the physicochemical properties of common virus particles for catalytic applications.
• To discuss the self-assembly of VLP nanoreactors, their role as artificial organelles, and potential biomedical uses.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of VLP-based nanoreactors.
• Analysis of VLP physicochemical properties relevant to catalysis.
• Summary of VLP nanoreactor self-assembly and hierarchical structures.

Main Results:

• VLPs serve as effective nanocarriers, protecting and enriching catalysts for improved reactions.
• VLP nanoreactors offer confined environments, preventing interference from bulk solutions.
• Emerging applications include VLP nanoreactors functioning as artificial organelles with potential biomedical relevance.

Conclusions:

• VLP-based nanoreactors represent a significant advancement in catalysis and nanotechnology.
• Further research into VLP nanoreactors holds promise for novel biomedical applications.
• The review provides insights into current findings and future directions in the field.