Metal-organic frameworks as novel matrices for efficient enzyme immobilization: An update review

Abstract

As a typical green methodology, enzymatic catalysis has been extensively employed in multitudinous chemical and biological transformation procedures. However, intrinsic fragile nature of enzymes makes them prone to denaturation or destabilization in harsh practical conditions, leading to unavoidably shortened lifespan and extremely high cost. It was proven that enzyme immobilization is an efficient strategy for enhancing their catalytic performance in continuous industrial practices. Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) with extremely high specific surface area, abundant porosity, extraordinary multifunctionality, and relatively high stability, in recent years, have attracted remarkable research interests as novel supporting matrices for efficient enzyme immobilization and protection. Many reported MOFs-enzyme composites exhibit unprecedented catalytic performances than those of free enzymes, including improved enzyme efficiency, stability, selectivity, and recyclability, due to the protection of enzymes by highly ordered frameworks. To present a systematic overview of this emerging and developing field, herein, we summarize an update review about the most recent advances in MOFs immobilizing enzymes from the aspects of general synthetic approaches, critical impact factors, enhanced catalytic performances, and the practical applications. Subsequently, the emerging theories, methodologies and technologies in this thriving area are briefly introduced. Finally, barriers and future perspectives about MOFs for enzyme immobilization are also discussed.