Recent Advances in Enzyme Immobilisation Strategies: An Overview of Techniques and Composite Carriers

Abstract

For over a century, enzyme immobilisation has been proven to be a superior strategy to improve catalytic activity and reusability and ensure easy separation, easy operation, and reduced cost. Enzyme immobilisation allows for an easier separation of the enzyme from the reaction mixture, thus simplifying downstream processing. This technology protects the enzyme from degradation or inactivation by harsh reaction conditions, making it more robust and suitable to be used in various applications. Recent strategies of immobilisation methods, such as adsorption, cross-linking, entrapment or encapsulation, and covalent bonding, were critically reviewed. These strategies have shown promising results in improving enzyme stability, activity, and reusability in various applications. A recent development in enzyme immobilisation in nanomaterials and agrowaste renewable carriers is underlined in the current review. Furthermore, the use of nanomaterials and agrowaste carriers in enzyme immobilisation has gained significant attention due to their unique properties, such as high surface area, high mass transfer, biocompatibility, and sustainability. These materials offer promising outcomes for developing more efficient and sustainable immobilised enzymes. This state-of-the-art strategy allows for better control over enzyme reactions and enhances their reusability, leading to more cost-effective and environmentally friendly processes. The use of renewable materials also helps to reduce waste generation and promote the utilisation of renewable resources, further contributing to the development of a circular economy.