Cell-free biocatalytic modules mediated by a solid-binding peptide

Solid-binding peptides (SBPs) are short peptide sequences that selectively recognise and bind to solid support materials. They can act as molecular linkers to direct the orientated immobilisation of proteins and enzymes onto solid materials without compromising their biological function. SBPs have been used mostly as molecular tools for functionalisation of nanomaterials. However, little is known about the potential use of SBPs for the immobilisation of enzymes and their application in industrial-scale biocatalysis. The SBP used in this project displays strong and seductive binding affinity to silica-based materials like silica and zeolite. These are considered ideal supports for enzyme immobilisation in industrial processes as they offer unique properties including high mechanical strength and stability, are chemically inert and can be used over a wide range of operating pressures and conditions. This project aims to explore the potential of combining SBPs, inexpensive silica-based matrices and polysaccharide-degrading enzymes into functional biocatalytic modules for potential industrial apllications. This will be a proof of concept project designed to investigate the effect of incorporating the SBP into thermophilic enzymes and establish the minimum requirement to set up functional cell-free biocatalytic modules. Biocatalytic modules containing multiple themophilic enzymes retain function under conditions suitable for large-scale industrial biocatalysis.