Molecular Packaging of Biocatalysts Using a Robust Protein Cage

In this paper, we report on the discovery of a novel, robust protein cage (encapsulin) that we could use for packaging various biocatalysts. We have elucidated the structure of the stable encapsulin by electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. Furthermore, we developed an effective expression system for the encapsulin and a facile protocol for preparing encapsulated enzymes. By packaging and testing various enzymes (varying in size, oligomeric structure, and cofactor type) we demonstrate that, through encapsulation, the enzymes become significantly more stable. We also provide evidence that the pores of the encapsulin, through a size-exclusion effect, can modulate the substrate acceptance profile of an encapsulated enzyme.

Molecular Packaging of Biocatalysts Using a Robust Protein Cage

In this paper, we report on the discovery of a novel, robust protein cage (encapsulin) that we could use for packaging various biocatalysts. We have elucidated the structure of the stable encapsulin by electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. Furthermore, we developed an effective expression system for the encapsulin and a facile protocol for preparing encapsulated enzymes. By packaging and testing various enzymes (varying in size, oligomeric structure, and cofactor type) we demonstrate that, through encapsulation, the enzymes become significantly more stable. We also provide evidence that the pores of the encapsulin, through a size-exclusion effect, can modulate the substrate acceptance profile of an encapsulated enzyme.

Size exclusion effect in binary inclusion compounds of α-cyclodextrin

The size exclusion of guests by α-cyclodextrin (aCD) in binary host–guest systems was observed to be a key structure–property relationship for the choice of this host as a receptor.

Controllable synthesis of isoreticular pillared-layer MOFs: gas adsorption, iodine sorption and sensing small molecules

Five isostructural ‘pillared-layer’ MOFs have been constructed depending on the adjustable lengths and functions of pillar ligands. In addition, 1–5 can be used to separate dye molecules based on the size-exclusion effect.