Nanoscale Protonation Limits and Charge Density in Polymer Films Govern the Activity of Immobilized LacZ under Acid Stress

Key Points

• This research investigates how design parameters of polymer coatings affect the activity of immobilized LacZ under acidic conditions.
• Designed polycationic polymer coatings with varying protonation levels and charge densities.
• Assessed enzyme activity of immobilized LacZ under controlled acid stress conditions.
• Analyzed the relationship between polymer characteristics and enzyme stability.
• Significant decrease in LacZ activity noted at high acidity levels, correlating with protonation limits.
• Optimal charge density enhanced enzyme function, with greater stability observed in less acidic environments.
• Findings suggest specific polymer design can mitigate acid stress effects on enzyme activity.