Enzyme Immobilization on Nanofibrous Supports

Electrospinning is a technique used to create nanofibrous mats with high surface area to mass ratios.  Due to the high surface area to mass ratio, the electrospun mats are promising for a variety of applications such as filtration, tissue scaffolds, and supports for catalysts.  Enzymes are highly efficient and selective biocatalysts.  Nanofibers with incorporated enzymes could potentially be used for biosensor and catalysis applications.  In this project, we are immobilizing enzymes on nanfibrous supports by electrospinning solutions of water soluble polymers and enzymes.    The nanofibers can then be chemically crosslinked rendering them insoluble in water while maintaining fiber morphology.  Once insoluble in water, the immobilized enzymes can be used in a variety of aqueous based reactions.  The effect of crosslinking on the enzyme activity and stability are of particular interest.