Trypsin/Zn3(PO4)2 Hybrid Nanoflowers: Controlled Synthesis and Excellent Performance as an Immobilized Enzyme

Abstract

Immobilized enzymes are a significant technological approach to retain enzyme activity and reduce enzyme catalytic cost. In this work, trypsin-incorporated Zn3(PO4)2 hybrid nanoflowers were prepared via mild precipitation and coordination reactions. The controllable preparation of hybrid nanoflowers was achieved by systematically investigating the effects of the raw-material ratio, material concentration and reaction temperature on product morphology and physicochemical properties. The enzyme content of hybrid nanoflowers was about 6.5%, and the maximum specific surface area reached 68.35 m2/g. The hybrid nanoflowers exhibit excellent catalytic activity and environmental tolerance compared to free trypsin, which was attributed to the orderly accumulation of nanosheets and proper anchoring formation. Further, the enzyme activity retention rate was still higher than 80% after 12 repeated uses. Therefore, trypsin/Zn3(PO4)2 hybrid nanoflowers—which combine functionalities of excellent heat resistance, storage stability and reusability—exhibit potential industrial application prospects.