3. Development of novel nanobiotechnological applications

The aim of this project is to develop new enzyme-immobilized systems and their use in adequate environments favoring the desired bioconversions. As new enzyme encapsulation systems we studied the organogels which are based on a matrix of a natural polymer around the enzymatic nanodispersion. The obtained system is a solid-like gel. The biocatalytic reactions can be carried out continuously offering simplified final product isolation and a possibility of enzyme reuse. The recent studies focused on the use of cellulose derivatives such as the hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose, HPMC as a gelling agent.

We also develop new environments for mild biocatalytic reactions. This is the case of supercritical CO2 that can be applied to solubilized substrates with limited solubility in conventional solvents. The technique is considered as very suitable for bioconverting delicate products used in the foods and pharmaceuticals where the use of solvents are avoided.

Formation of microemulsion-based gels (MBG)

Lipase-immobilization in microemulsions-based organogels (MBG)