Polyethylene Glycol-Enzyme Nanocomplexes as Carrier-free Biocatalyst for Pickering Interfacial Catalysis

Area of Science:

• Biocatalysis
• Nanotechnology
• Emulsion Science

Background:

• Pickering emulsions are stabilized by solid particles at interfaces.
• Interfacial biocatalysis offers advantages for enzyme-catalyzed reactions in multiphase systems.
• Developing carrier-free, reusable enzyme catalysts is crucial for sustainable chemistry.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize novel PEG-enzyme nanocomplexes for Pickering interfacial biocatalysis.
• To evaluate the catalytic activity, emulsifying properties, and reusability of these nanocomplexes.
• To establish an eco-friendly platform for carrier-free interfacial biocatalysis.

Main Methods:

• Self-assembly of polyethylene glycol-aldehyde (PEG-ALD) and lipase into nanocomplexes via mild cross-linking.
• Stabilization of nanocomplexes in an oil-in-water emulsion to form Pickering emulsions.
• Assessment of enzyme activity retention and reusability over multiple catalytic cycles.

Main Results:

• Successfully prepared PEG-enzyme nanocomplexes functioning as catalysts and emulsifiers.
• Achieved an 82.1% enzyme activity retention rate due to a mild cross-linking process.
• Demonstrated excellent reusability, with 86.05% activity remaining after five cycles.
• Emulsified biphasic aqueous-organic solutions into stable Pickering emulsions.

Conclusions:

• PEG-enzyme nanocomplexes offer a robust and eco-friendly platform for carrier-free Pickering interfacial biocatalysis.
• The self-assembly method preserves enzyme structure and activity, enabling efficient catalysis and emulsification.
• The system's high reusability supports sustainable applications in biocatalysis and emulsion technology.