BIOCATALYTIC PLASTICS AS ACTIVE AND STABLE MATERIALS FOR BIOTRANSFORMATIONS

Enzyme-containing polymeric materials have been developed that have hi gh activity and stability in both aqueous and organic media. These bio catalytic plastics, containing oc-chymotrypsin and subtilisin Carlsber g, can contain up to 50% (w/w) total protein in plastic materials such as poly(methyl methacrylate, styrene, vinyl acetate, and ethyl vinyl ether). The activation achieved in organic solvents by incorporating p roteases in plastic matrices allows for the efficient synthesis of pep tides, and sugar and nucleoside esters. The marriage of enzyme technol ogy with polymer chemistry opens up an array of unique applications fo r plastic enzymes, including active and stable biocatalysts in paints, coatings, resins, foams, and beads, as well as membranes, fibers, and tubings.