Protein@ZIFs with tailor-made properties

Description

Metal-organic framework (MOF) biocomposites, combining MOF matrices with biomacromolecules like proteins/enzymes, show promise in drug delivery and biocatalysis. Zeolitic Imidazolate Frameworks (ZIFs) based on Zn2+ and 2-methylimidazole are widely studied for encapsulation, protection and delivery of the fragile bio-cargo. However, the properties of protein@ZIF
biocomposites depends on their synthesis conditions that determine crystal phase, particle size and morphology, encapsulation efficiency, loading capacity and release profile. This study systematically explores parameters like precursor ratios, total concentration, and washing procedures.
Bovine serum albumin (BSA), a commonly used model protein, was chosen for initial screening, examining relationships between crystal phase, encapsulation efficiency, loading capacity, and release profile. Selected protocols were then applied to encapsulate α-1-Antitrypsin (AAT), a clinical proteinbased biotherapeutic, achieving successful encapsulation with record-high loading capacity (~85%) and confirmed retained bioactivity upon release. These findings expand the versatility of ZIF biocomposites with tunable properties, supporting the development of ZIF-based drug delivery systems.

Period	3 Apr 2024 → 4 Apr 2024
Event title	Doc Days 2024
Event type	Conference
Location	Graz, AustriaShow on map
Degree of Recognition	Local