Short Peptide-Based Nanotubes Facilitating Catalytic Activity at Aqueous and Organic-Aqueous Interface

Saha, Subhankar (2025) Short Peptide-Based Nanotubes Facilitating Catalytic Activity at Aqueous and Organic-Aqueous Interface. Masters thesis, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata.

Text (MS Dissertation of Subhankar Saha (234MP019)) 23MP019_Thesis_file.pdf - Submitted Version Restricted to Repository staff only Download (2MB)

Abstract

Biocatalysis harnesses natural enzymes to drive chemical reactions under mild and sustainable conditions. However, enzymatic transformations in aqueous media face challenges such as substrate solubility and product inhibition, limiting their application. To address these issues, aqueous-organic biphasic systems have been developed, enhancing reaction efficiency through improved substrate availability and enabling otherwise unfavourable reactions. Despite these advantages, organic solvents compromise enzyme stability, which requires the use of solid supports. Self-assembled peptide nanostructures offer a promising solution due to their structural stability, design versatility, and effective enzyme immobilization capacity. In this study, we have shown peptide-based nanostructures as enzyme carriers that not only stabilize enzymes but also enhance diffusion at the aqueous-organic interface. Inspired by natural swarming, enzyme-functionalized nanomotors show collective motion and improved catalytic efficiency, demonstrated in a biphasic system for peroxidase activity. Additionally, peptide nanotubes have been employed to facilitate complex transformations like the Morita–Baylis–Hillman reaction in water, with proline co-catalysis enhancing yield and efficiency. These strategies collectively advance the development of dynamic, efficient biocatalytic systems for challenging chemical transformations.

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