Immobilization of Nitrilase: Driving Efficiency and Sustainability in Pharmaceutical Synthesis

Abstract

Enzyme immobilization has propelled the pharmaceutical sector forward by playing a critical role in chemical synthesis; therefore, biocatalyst reuse in pharmaceutical industries has received significant attention due to its eco-friendly nature and potential for streamlining future utilization. In particular, nitrilases have emerged as potential biocatalysts in synthesizing pharmaceutical intermediates and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Enzyme immobilization has created a platform for nitrilase that significantly improved its thermal stability and reusability, increasing its commercial value in the pharmaceutical industry. The current article provides a comprehensive analysis of recent advances in the immobilization of nitrilases in continuous flow systems, focusing on how this approach contributes to the efficiency and sustainability of the pharmaceutical industry. The exploitation of advantages of immobilization, such as improved stability, reusability, and ease of isolation, along with nitrilase biocatalysts, has proven to be an invaluable tool in the pursuit of more environment-friendly and efficient pharmaceutical synthesis.