Karlsruhe Institute of Technology develops enzyme beads for sustainable chemistry

Researchers at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) have developed a new technology to create millimeter-sized, storable enzyme beads for more sustainable chemical synthesis. Led by Professor Christof Niemeyer, the team has advanced the concept of All-Enzyme Hydrogels (AEHs).

In this process, enzymes are equipped with molecular binding modules that allow them to self-organize into three-dimensional protein networks. A key advantage of this method is that the enzymes serve as both the catalyst and the structural material of the beads, eliminating the need for inactive carrier materials and increasing reaction efficiency. This approach can also be combined with living cells.

The technology aims to address industrial needs for biocatalysts that are easy to transport, dose, and store in large quantities. The findings have been published in the journal Advanced Materials, and a patent application has been filed for the process.