Advanced strategies for enzyme–electrode interfacing in bioelectrocatalytic systems

Abstract

Advances in protein engineering-enabled enzyme immobilization technologies have significantly improved enzyme–electrode wiring in enzymatic electrochemical systems, which harness natural biological machinery to either generate electricity or synthesize biochemicals. In this review, we provide guidelines for designing enzyme–electrodes, focusing on how performance variables change depending on electron transfer (ET) mechanisms. Recent advancements in enzyme immobilization technologies are summarized, highlighting their contributions to extending enzyme–electrode sustainability (up to months), enhancing biosensor sensitivity, improving biofuel cell performance, and setting a new benchmark for turnover frequency in bioelectrocatalysis. We also highlight state-of-the-art protein-engineering approaches that enhance enzyme–electrode interfacing through three key principles: protein–protein, protein–ligand, and protein–inorganic interactions. Finally, we discuss prospective avenues in strategic protein design for real-world applications. © 2024 The Author(s)