Immobilization

Immobilization is a biotechnology process used to confine enzymes, cells, or proteins to a solid support or matrix, preventing free movement while preserving activity.[1][2][3][5] Common methods include adsorption (via van der Waals or hydrophobic interactions), covalent bonding (e.g., using epoxy or glyoxyl groups), entrapment in gels like agarose or hydrogels, and affinity techniques like His-tag binding to metal chelates.[2][4][5] This enhances enzyme stability against heat, pH changes, and organic solvents, allows reuse in reactors, and simplifies product separation, making it economically viable for industrial biocatalysis.[5] For example, lipases like Candida antarctica lipase B are commercially immobilized on resins for repeated use.[4] It plays no direct role in disease but supports applications in bioconversion, vaccine production, and environmental remediation; no drugs target it as it lacks a molecular structure.[1][3][5] Challenges include potential protein denaturation during attachment and reduced activity if orientation distorts active sites.[2][5]

Other names

StabilizationFixation