Towards the stabilisation of enzymes via the synthesis of protein-polymer conjugates

This thesis explores the use of protein-polymer conjugates to enhance the stability of various enzymatic species. Chapter 1 gives an overview of the current literature covering mechanisms of enzyme denaturation and various approaches to enhance stability of enzymatic species. Chapter 2 evaluates the synthesis of protein macro-initiators from α-chymotrypsin and the ability to tune the initiator grafting density by employing control of pH and concentration. Chapter 3 examines the production of protein-polymer conjugates from α-chymotrypsin utilising atom transfer radical polymerisations with a hydrophilic monomer, glycerol methacrylate, and investigates the effects of altering the polymeric grafting densities on enzyme stability. Chapter 4 investigates the functionality and architecture of the grafted polymer on the surface of α-Chymotrypsin and the subsequent effects on both activity and stability of the protein-polymer conjugate. Chapter 5 discusses the challenges of employing the chemistries used to synthesise both protein macro-initiators and protein-polymer conjugates on enzymes specific to laundry applications.