Advance could enable enzymatic reactions for chemical manufacturing beyond the boiling point of water

Enzymes are proteins that can be harnessed for chemical manufacturing, but they are typically restricted to mild temperatures because proteins unfold and lose their function under heat. In new research published in Angewandte Chemie Novit, investigators found that a porous organic polymer can be used to encapsulate a lipase (a type of enzyme) and create a protective molecular cage that prevents enzyme denaturation, enabling efficient and recyclable reactions with high-melting solids at and above 100°C.