화학공학소재연구정보센터
Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Vol.64, No.6, 650-655, 1999
Use of molecularly imprinted polymers in a biotransformation process
Molecularly imprinted polymers are highly stable and can be sterilised, making them ideal for use in biotransformation process. In this communication, we describe a novel application of molecularly imprinted polymers in an enzymatic reaction. The enzymatic condensation of Z-L-aspartic acid with L-phenylalanine methyl ester to give Z-t-Asp-L-Phe-OMe (Z-aspartame) was chosen as a model system to evaluate the applicability of using molecularly imprinted polymers to facilitate product formation. When the product-imprinted polymer is present, a considerable increase (40%) in product yield is obtained. Besides their use to enhance product yields, as demonstrated here, we suggest that: imprinted polymers may also find use in the continuous removal of toxic compounds during biochemical reactions.