Question

In immobilization of enzymes, the term "carrier" refers to

• A. The substrate of the enzyme
• B. The support material for enzyme attachment
• C. The product of enzyme catalysis
• D. The cofactor of the enzyme

Hint:

• Enzyme immobilization restricts enzyme mobility while retaining activity.
• Advantages: Enzyme reuse, easier product separation, improved stability.
• "Carrier" or "support" is the insoluble matrix or material to which the enzyme is bound or within which it is entrapped/encapsulated.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Enzyme immobilization is a process where enzymes are confined or localized in a defined region of space with retention of their catalytic activity, allowing for their repeated or continuous use. There are several methods of immobilization, including:

• Adsorption: Enzyme attached to the surface of an insoluble carrier.
• Covalent Binding: Enzyme covalently linked to an insoluble carrier.
• Entrapment: Enzyme enclosed within a porous matrix or gel (e.g., alginate, polyacrylamide).
• Encapsulation (Microencapsulation): Enzyme enclosed within a semi-permeable membrane capsule.
• Cross-linking: Enzymes linked to each other to form large, insoluble aggregates, often with a bifunctional reagent.

In methods like adsorption and covalent binding, the insoluble material to which the enzyme is attached is referred to as the carrier or support material. This carrier provides a solid phase for the enzyme, facilitating its separation from the reaction mixture and reuse. Let's analyze the options:
(a) The substrate of the enzyme: The substrate is the molecule upon which the enzyme acts.
(b) "The support material for enzyme attachment": This correctly describes the carrier in enzyme immobilization.
(c) The product of enzyme catalysis: The product is what the enzyme converts the substrate into.
(d) The cofactor of the enzyme: A cofactor is a non-protein chemical compound or metallic ion required for an enzyme's activity.
Therefore, the term "carrier" in enzyme immobilization refers to the support material. \[ \boxed{\text{The support material for enzyme attachment}} \]