Q.20 Which of the following is employed for the repeated use of enzymes in bioprocesses?
(A) polymerization (B) immobilization (C) ligation (D) isomerization

Immobilization enables repeated enzyme use in bioprocesses by attaching enzymes to solid supports, enhancing stability and recyclability. This technique addresses key challenges in biotechnology like cost efficiency and scalability.

Correct Answer

B) Immobilization is the method employed for repeated enzyme use in bioprocesses.

Why Immobilization?

Immobilization confines enzymes to a matrix different from substrates and products, allowing easy separation, recovery, and reuse while maintaining activity. Methods include adsorption, entrapment, covalent binding, and cross-linking, which improve thermal stability, pH resistance, and operational lifespan in industrial applications like food processing and pharmaceuticals. This makes it ideal for continuous bioprocesses, reducing enzyme costs significantly.

Option Explanations

• A) Polymerization: Involves linking monomers into polymers, unrelated to enzyme reuse; it’s a chemical synthesis process, not a bioprocess stabilization technique.

• B) Immobilization: Correct, as it enables enzyme recycling by physical or chemical attachment to supports, boosting reusability in reactors.

• C) Ligation: Refers to joining DNA fragments in molecular biology, like in cloning; no role in enzyme recovery or repeated use.

• D) Isomerization: Converts molecules between isomers (e.g., glucose to fructose); it’s a reaction catalyzed by enzymes, not a reuse method.