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Research cluster: ChemBiofilm / Subproject
 
Subproject 4: Immobilization procedure for quorum quenching enzymes, their characterization and evaluation for technical application.
Project time: 01.02.10-31.07.13
Project leader:
   Prof. Dr. Andreas Liese, Technische Universität Hamburg-Harburg

Bacteria use acyl-homoserine lactones (AHLs) for intercellular communication (quorum sensing), e.g. for the formation of biofilms (Amara et al., 2010). Biofilms cause problems in technical processes, agriculture, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals as well as persistent human infections. One approach to attenuate biofilm formation is the enzymatic degradation of the AHLs by acylases and esterases.
The technical application of AHL-degrading enzymes is limited by their activity, stability and availability. Enzymes can be attached to specific surfaces by immobilization techniques (Hanfeld et al., 2009). This can also lead to an enhanced stability of the enzymes. The aim of this subproject is to immobilize AHL-degrading enzymes to desired surfaces and determine the inhibitory effect on biofilms. The second subproject focuses on the production of AHLs as well as the production of reference substances.

References:

Amara, N., Krom, B.P., Kaufmann, G.F., Meijler, M.M. (2010) Macromolecular Inhibition of Quorum Sensing: Enzymes, Antibodies, and Beyond. Chem Rev. (Epub ahead of print, Nov 18)