James Robert Schaeffer

Co-immobilized coupled enzyme systems on nylon mesh capable of gluconic and pyruvic acid production

SummaryThe coupled enzyme systems glucose oxidase-catalase and lactate oxidase-catalase have been immobilized in a cross-linked gelatin matrix on a nylon mesh fabric. These immobilized enzyme systems can be used for the production of gluconic and pyruvic acids, respectively.

Polymeric thiols as enzyme activators of serum creatine phosphokinase.

Several hydrophilic polymeric thiols were prepared from aminoactivated polymeric supports by reaction with N-acetylhomocysteinethiolactone. Supports include agaroses, cellulose, Glycophase™ controlled-pore glass, and Matrex™ acrylic beads. Thiol content in these polymers was 3–72 μmol SH/g dry polymer. Several were effective solid-phase activators of the sulfhydryl-dependent enzyme creatine phosphokinase at concentrations comparable to that of monomeric thiol required for enzyme activation. The kinetic activation curves for the polymeric and the monomeric (thioglucose) activators were similar, suggesting unhindered interaction of the enzyme with the polymeric activator.

Application of Thin-Film Biocatalysts to Organic Synthesis

Coating methods developed for use in the preparation of photographic and clinical analytical materials have been adapted for use in the construction of immobilized thin-film biocatalysts. Syntheses of gluconic acid, pyruvic acid, as-partic acid, alanine and ribavirin were catalyzed with thin-film biocatalysts. Several of the synthetic processes utilize bioreactors composed of spiral wound immobilized biocatalysts. The advantages of the method are discussed.