Exploring the Potential of Enzyme-Immobilized MOFs: Biosensing, Biocatalysis, Targeted Drug Delivery and Cancer Therapy

Abstract

Enzymes are indispensable in several applications including the drug industry, biosensing, and degradation of pollutants. However, adverse conditions restrict the enzyme's utility in biocatalysis due to its inherent limitations. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), with their robust structure, offer an innovative avenue for enzyme immobilization, enhancing their resilience against harsh solvents and temperatures. This advancement is pivotal in bio-sensing, bio-catalysis, and specifically, targeted drug delivery in cancer therapy, where enzyme-MOF composites enable precise therapeutic localization, minimizing the side effects of traditional treatment. The adaptable nature of MOFs enhances drug biocompatibility and availability, significantly improving therapeutic outcomes. Moreover, the integration of enzyme-immobilized MOFs with bio-sensing represents a leap forward in the rapid and accurate identification of biomarkers, facilitating early diagnosis and disease monitoring. In bio-catalysis, this synergy promotes efficient, environmentally safe chemical synthesis, enhancing reaction rates and yields, and broadening the scope of enzyme application in pharmaceutical and bio-fuel production. This review article explores the immobilization techniques, and biomedical applications, specifically focusing on drug delivery in cancer therapy and bio-sensing. Additionally, it addresses the challenges faced in this expanding field.