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The catalytic action of invertase generates bilayer asymmetry that stabilises membrane curvature. The driving mechanism for the generation of membrane curvature by invertase is investigated using giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs). The invertase cleaves the sucrose in the exterior compartment, thereby creating a sugar asymmetry across the bilayer membrane that is measured for GUV membranes consisting of the lipid Dioleoylphosphatidylcholine (DOPC). Finally, the advantage of this method to control membrane curvature and to stabilize multi‐sphere morphologies is demonstrated. The GUV system in the presence of invertase is beneficial as a tool to generate multiple on‐demand compartments with more extended stability after the enzymatic activity has established the asymmetry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The inhibitory effect of nucleotides on the catalytic activity of acetylcholine esterase (AChE) was rationalized and a similar inhibition trend was observed when analyzing the macroscopic fluid flow generated by surface immobilized AChE. Additionally, the demonstration of enzymatic micropumping by showing adenine–nucleotide responsive AChE actuated fluid flow from blood plasma paved the way for designing future lab-on-a-chip devices in complex biological environments with potential clinical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Formation of a thermally stiffening microemulsion-based gel showing a nanoconfinement effect of carbohydrates in terms of microviscosity and hydrodynamic diameter of the reverse micelle (specifically with sucrose) is reported. The advantage of this gel as an efficient batch bioreactor for entrapped enzymes (horseradish peroxidase and thermophilic α-glucosidase) was shown, and illustrated its potential biocatalytic application at high temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]