Intercalation of Enzymes in Layered Inorganic Materials

Abstract

Intercalation reaction of two enzymes, catalase and glucose oxidase (GOD) into α-zirconium phosphate, α-ZrP, was examined. The intercalation in aqueous solution was carried out in two different procedures. In the first procedure, colloidal mixture of α-ZrP and propylamine was prepared in advance and the enzyme was added to the colloidal mixture. The exfoliated lamellae were produced in the mixture and the intercalation was expected to occur on the occasion of re-cohesion of the exfoliated lamellae. α-ZrP was added in the enzyme-propylamine mixed solution in the second procedure. Simultaneous accommodation of enzyme with propylamine was expected to occur. Most of the products were amorphous irrespective of the preparation procedures. Under suitable condition, catalase and GOD intercalation compounds showed significant enzyme activity with relatively long life.