Question

In which of the following method, entrapment can be achieved?

(a) Adsorption

(b) Membrane confinement

(c) Covalent binding

(d) Microencapsulation

This question was addressed to me during an interview.

This interesting question is from Methods of Immobilization in division Immobilized Enzymes Preparation and Kinetics of Enzyme Technology

Answer 1

The correct answer is (d) Microencapsulation

To explain: Entrapment can be achieved by using microencapsulation. In this method entrapment, the enzyme is entrapped within a semipermeable membrane of a microcapsule and this is done by interfacial polymerization. In immobilization by adsorption, the enzyme is bound to suitable adsorbent which renders it immobile.  In membrane confinement, the enzyme in aqueous solution is confined within a semipermeable membrane. In covalent binding, the enzyme is linked to the carrier matrix by covalent bond between them.