Abstract:
Laccase enzyme has gained popularity due to its wide range of substrates, use of only molecular oxygen as a
co-factor and release of water as a by-product. In order to improve its reusability in harsh conditions, various
supports have been explored for its immobilization. In this study, laccase was immobilized on zinc oxidechitosan/polyvinylpolypyrolidone (ZnONPs/CS/PVPP) and silver doped zinc oxidechitosan/polyvinylpolypyrolidone (Ag@ZnONPs/CS/PVPP) beads. The Ag@ZnONPs/CS/PVPP beads showed
a higher immobilization yield and retained enzyme activity (76.0% and 50.0% respectively) compared to the
ZnONPs/CS/PVPP beads (50.4% and 41.7% respectively). The biocatalysts demonstrated improved enzyme
stability at higher temperatures and longer storage stability compared to the free enzyme hence show potential
for further biotechnological applications.
