Tuning Catalytic Attributes of Enzymes by Conjugation with Functionalized Carbon Dots

Abstract

Enzymes are essential biological catalysts that can accelerate multiple reactions. Their outstanding catalytic properties make them highly valuable in different research fields and industries including pharmaceutical, sensing, food, and agriculture. However, the catalytic attributes of free enzymes are limited by their poor stability and resistance to harsh conditions. Recently, the conjugation of different enzymes with carbon dots (CDs) has been explored as a novel strategy for tuning their catalytic properties. CDs possess unique and tunable characteristics such as light stability, electron transfer properties, lower toxicity, cost-efficiency, and outstanding biocompatibility; thus, they represent excellent options for the conjugation of different enzymes to improve their stability, selectivity, and catalytic efficiency. Recently, various CDs-based nano-biocatalysts have been successfully prepared with superior performances compared to their free enzymes. Therefore, this review aims to discuss the most recent reported studies in the synthesis of CDs-based nano-biocatalysts providing an overview of current methodologies and recent research applications. Lastly, we delve into the prospects and the future possibilities of such innovative conjugates that entail an exploration of the faced challenges and their untapped potential for various applications.

Graphical Abstract