Immobilised enzymes Flashcards
Define bioprocessing
It is the use of enzyme-controlled reactions to produce a product
Define bioreactor
A bioreactor is a vessel or container in which living cells or their products are used to make a product
Define immobilised enzymes
They are enzymes that are attached, or fixed, to each other, or to an inert material.
Traditionally, what did bioprocessing involve?
It involved microorganisms like Yeast and bacteria
Give some examples of traditional bioprocessing using yeast and bacteria
To produce a vast range of products like cheeses, yoghurts, breads, beers and wines.
Give some examples of bioprocessing products in modern times
antibiotics, vaccines, vitamins, sugar syrups, perfumes
What were the cells (micro-organisms) used in many bioprocesses replaced by?
Replaced by purified enzymes
How was the use of freely dissolved enzymes in a vessel to carry out a biological reaction wasteful?
This is because the enzymes are removed from the vessel at the end of the process and it is not normally possible to isolate the enzymes for reuse.
How is the problem of freely dissolved enzymes solved?
To prevent this problem, enzymes are often immobilised so they remain in place. In this way, they remain in the bioreactor and are easier to recover and reuse.
