Boosting Enzyme Activity in Enzyme Metal–Organic Framework Composites

Abstract

Enzymes, as highly efficient biocatalysts, excel in catalyzing diverse reactions with exceptional activity and selective properties under mild conditions. Nonetheless, their broad applications are hindered by their inherent fragility, including low thermal stability, limited pH tolerance, and sensitivity to organic solvents and denaturants. Encapsulating enzymes within metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) can protect them from denaturation in these harsh environments. However, this often leads to a compromised enzyme activity. In recent years, extensive research efforts have been dedicated to enhancing enzymatic activity within MOFs, leading to the development of new enzyme–MOF composites that not only preserve their catalytic potential but also outperform their free counterparts. This Review provides a comprehensive review on recent developments in enzyme–MOF composites with a specific emphasis on their enhanced enzymatic activity compared to free enzymes.