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Biotechnology: Enzymes in a cage

Scientists from Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) have successfully embedded enzymes in metal-organic frameworks to enhance their stability. This innovation enables the use of these enzymes in both aqueous and organic solvents, leading to improved productivity and stability in continuous reactors.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMar 14, 2022
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Basis for next-gen bioprocesses

Researchers at TUM have successfully produced succinic acid using the marine bacterium Vibrio natriegens, which has rapid growth and substrate uptake rates. The team is now working to optimize the process for industrial-scale production using renewable raw materials.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalMicrobial Biotechnology·DateFeb 23, 2022

Cats in a cage: Novel hybrid nanocages for faster catalysis

Researchers from Tokyo Tech created hybrid ferritin nanocages with histidine residues, achieving 1.5 times higher metal ion uptake and improved catalytic efficiency for alcohol production. The new cages show promising potential as viable catalysts in the chemical industry.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2022

New theories and materials aid the transition to clean energy

Researchers at Arizona State University explore alternative approaches to catalysis, a chemical process crucial for industrial applications. The study aims to develop synthetic catalysts that can improve on nature's designs, leading to the production of carbon-neutral fuels.

SourceArizona State University·JournalChem Catalysis·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 14, 2021

Hidden in the seeds: Bacteria found to survive the harsh interior of passion fruit seeds

Scientists at Tokyo University of Science discovered endophytic bacteria that can survive extreme conditions within passion fruit seeds. The bacteria were isolated from seedlings grown from cut seeds and found to possess biocatalytic activities related to the metabolism of secondary metabolites, such as resveratrol and piceatannol.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalMicrobiologyOpen·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 30, 2021
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Faster and cheaper ethanol-to-jet-fuel on the horizon

A new catalyst and microchannel reactors improve efficiency and cost in converting alcohol into jet fuel. The process reduces complexity, improves efficiency, and lowers capital costs for renewable energy production.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2021

Hybrid enzyme catalysts synthesized by a de novo approach for expanding biocatalysis

Researchers developed hybrid enzyme catalysts using a de novo approach to expand biocatalysis, improving stability and activity. The method involves introducing defects into MOFs to alleviate diffusional restrictions and facilitating access of substrates to encapsulated enzymes.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChinese Journal of Catalysis·DateJul 8, 2021

Breaking the rules of chemistry unlocks new reaction

Scientists at the University of Nottingham have developed a new method to produce chemical molecules more efficiently through a one-step reaction in an enzyme. This breakthrough has significant implications for the production of pharmaceuticals, with potential applications in the development of new drugs.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalNature Catalysis·DateDec 1, 2020

Cyanobacteria as "green" catalysts in biotechnology

Researchers at TU Graz have successfully increased the catalytic performance of cyanobacteria by redirecting photosynthetic electron flow to desired reactions. This method reduces energy consumption and enhances biotechnological production, paving the way for large-scale industrial applications.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalACS Catalysis·DateOct 5, 2020

Researchers shed light on new enzymatic reaction

Scientists at Illinois have identified a novel enzymatic reaction that uses repurposed enzymes to produce high-yields of valuable chiral carbonyl compounds. This eco-friendly process merges biocatalysis with photocatalysis, offering potential applications in pharmaceutical and bioenergy fields.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalNature·DateJun 8, 2020
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Plasma-driven biocatalysis

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum developed a process to protect enzymes from plasma treatment, allowing for stable biocatalytic reactions with precise hydrogen peroxide dosing. This method improves the efficiency of traditional enzyme catalysis by reducing energy consumption and waste.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalChemSusChem·DateMar 3, 2020

Shaping the rings of molecules

Researchers at Université de Montrêl have successfully used biocatalysis to control the shapes of large ring molecules, called macrocycles. This breakthrough enables the creation of planar chiral macrocycles, which can be tailored for various applications including pharmaceuticals and electronics.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalScience·DateFeb 21, 2020

Iodide salts stabilize biocatalysts for fuel cells

Researchers have discovered that adding iodide salts to electrolytes can prevent hydrogen peroxide formation, leading to the stabilization of biocatalysts for fuel cells. This extends the life of catalysts, making them suitable for energy conversion processes such as solar fuel generation and electrosynthesis.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 14, 2020
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Catalytic protocells get zingy

Researchers have developed artificial cells capable of decomposing hydrogen peroxide and generating oxygen, as well as implementing a rudimentary chemical signalling pathway between the cells. The new protocells use a combination of synthetic and biological catalysts to create multi-functional activity.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 8, 2020

How to make biocatalysts immortal

A research team from Bochum and Marseille has developed a self-defence mechanism in biocatalysts that shields them from oxygen, extending their service life up to 22,000 years. The new design uses tiny molecular spheres to create an extremely thin protective film that maintains efficiency.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 9, 2019

Green production of chemicals for industry

Researchers from KIT develop a new biomaterial that enables the use of enzymes for 'green' production of value-added chemicals. The new biomaterial facilitates rapid reactions with low energy consumption, making it an attractive alternative to traditional catalysts.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateDec 11, 2018

Creating rings in natural antibiotic synthesis

Researchers discovered an enzymatic reaction cascade generating the essential 6-membered ring in mupirocin production. The finding builds on earlier research and could lead to the development of new antibiotics with improved properties.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Catalysis·DateNov 26, 2018
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Fully identified: The pathway of protons

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum have identified the proton transfer pathway in [FeFe]-hydrogenases, a crucial step for efficient hydrogen production. The study reveals that amino acids with no function can shut down hydrogenase activity, and provides valuable insights into the molecular mechanism of proton transfer.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 9, 2018

Synthetic DNA-based enzymes

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum have developed semi-synthetic enzyme systems using DNA, which can replace protein cofactors. This innovation aims to create more stable biocatalysts that can be used in industry for climate protection and economic gain.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Reviews Chemistry·DateAug 20, 2018

Manipulated enzymes

Researchers at TU Graz have achieved a breakthrough in biocatalysis by manipulating an enzyme to create ring-shaped molecules. This innovation enables the production of novel pharmaceuticals and plant protection products with high enantiomeric purity, opening doors for sustainable 'green' chemistry.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJun 11, 2018
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Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

A catalyst with self-defense against oxygen

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum have developed a new catalyst with a self-defense mechanism against oxygen damage, using DuBois-type complexes based on abundant metals. The protection system involves an immobilization matrix that electrically disconnects the catalyst from the electrode surface.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 14, 2018

Hydrogen production: Protein environment makes catalyst efficient

Researchers analyzed protein shell and active center interaction in green algae enzymes, improving understanding of biocatalyst efficiency and informing chemical catalyst development. Hydrogen bonds between H-cluster and protein environment significantly influence electrochemical properties and catalytic direction.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateDec 14, 2017

Electricity production: When enzymes rival platinum

Researchers have developed biocells that use enzymes to convert hydrogen into electrical energy, rivaling the performance of platinum-based fuel cells. The new technology uses heat-stable enzymes that can withstand high temperatures and resist inhibitors, overcoming major hurdles in industrial development.

SourceCNRS·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateSep 1, 2017
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Pitt chemists reveal novel biocatalysts for bioactive alkaloid synthesis

Researchers at Pitt have identified a new family of enzymes that can efficiently synthesize the complex polycyclic structures found in potent antimicrobial and antitumor alkaloids. This breakthrough enables the chemoenzymatic synthesis of these molecules, paving the way for potential drug discoveries.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalChemical Communications·DateFeb 21, 2017

Biochemistry: Combining two catalytic worlds

Researchers from Ruhr-University Bochum have successfully combined enzyme and chemical catalysts using a gel matrix to overcome the challenge of different reaction conditions. This approach enables more efficient and cost-effective synthesis of polyphenols, with potential applications in cancer therapies.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateOct 19, 2016
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Calixarenes in lipase biocatalysis and cancer therapy

Calixarenes can amplify enzyme catalytic capacity, enabling novel therapeutics in cancer treatment. They also serve as drug delivery vehicles, refining pharmacokinetic profiles and releasing drugs selectively to cancer cells.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Organic Chemistry·DateAug 17, 2016

Put algae in your tank

Scientists have developed a unique combination of light and climate simulation to optimize algae cultivation, leading to higher yields and more efficient energy production. The system uses spectrum-tuned LEDs to simulate natural sunlight, allowing for precise control over the growth conditions of different algae species.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·DateDec 9, 2014

No need for water, enzymes are doing it for themselves

Researchers at University of Bristol discovered that enzymes can function without water, enabling the development of thermally robust industrial enzymes for harsh processing conditions. This breakthrough has potential applications in detergent technologies and biofuel production.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 6, 2014
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How to get fossil fuels from ice cream and soap

Scientists have created a way to convert naturally occurring fatty acids found in soap and ice cream into ready-to-use fuel and household chemicals. This breakthrough in synthetic biology has the potential to create renewable energy from sustainable sources.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 17, 2012

New structural information on functionalization of gold nanoparticles

Researchers report the first structural study on the atomistic processes of a ligand-exchange reaction in well-defined gold nanoparticles. The study reveals that only 4 sites out of 44 possibilities showed occupation by the exchanged ligand, providing insight into the highly heterogeneous structure of the overlayer.

SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 2, 2012

A group of fungi marked the end of the coal age 300 million years ago

A group of highly specialized fungi, identified through comparative analysis of 31 fungal genomes, developed a mechanism to efficiently decay plant biomass. These ancient organisms produced peroxidases that acted in synergy with other oxidative enzymes to degrade lignin, a polymer present in wood.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalScience·DateJun 28, 2012