CLRI Scientists Develop Smart Nanozyme for Safe Energy Production
POWER & RENEWABLE ENERGY

CLRI Scientists Develop Smart Nanozyme for Safe Energy Production

Scientists at CSIR-Central Leather Research Institute (CLRI), Chennai, have created a new artificial enzyme that could significantly improve how energy is managed within cells. The enzyme, called Cu-Phen, is a metallo-nanozyme designed to mimic natural enzymes by regulating electron transfer—a key process in cellular energy production.

While nanozymes have been gaining interest for their potential in medicine, energy, and environmental solutions, many current versions face a major drawback: their lack of control over electron flow. This can result in the production of toxic byproducts like reactive oxygen species (ROS), which may lead to cellular damage and reduced ATP (energy) production.

To address this, Dr. Amit Vernekar and his Ph.D. student, Adarsh Fatrekar, developed Cu-Phen using a “catalyst-by-design” approach. The nanozyme is made by coordinating copper ions (Cu²?) with phenylalanine, an amino acid, creating a structured assembly with a clearly defined active site. This structure helps ensure precise electron flow, similar to how natural enzymes work inside cells.

Cu-Phen interacts specifically with cytochrome c, a protein central to the electron transport chain in cells. The nanozyme binds in a receptor-ligand fashion and uses a unique mechanism called proton-coupled electron transfer to efficiently reduce oxygen into water—avoiding the creation of harmful ROS in the process.

These findings, recently published in the Journal of Materials Chemistry A, highlight the importance of active site design in the development of next-generation nanozymes. With better control over electron transfer, these artificial enzymes could play a key role in sustainable energy, medical innovations, and bio-compatible technologies.

The study opens new doors for nanozyme research, showing how carefully engineered catalysts can seamlessly integrate into biological systems and safely enhance energy pathways.

Scientists at CSIR-Central Leather Research Institute (CLRI), Chennai, have created a new artificial enzyme that could significantly improve how energy is managed within cells. The enzyme, called Cu-Phen, is a metallo-nanozyme designed to mimic natural enzymes by regulating electron transfer—a key process in cellular energy production. While nanozymes have been gaining interest for their potential in medicine, energy, and environmental solutions, many current versions face a major drawback: their lack of control over electron flow. This can result in the production of toxic byproducts like reactive oxygen species (ROS), which may lead to cellular damage and reduced ATP (energy) production. To address this, Dr. Amit Vernekar and his Ph.D. student, Adarsh Fatrekar, developed Cu-Phen using a “catalyst-by-design” approach. The nanozyme is made by coordinating copper ions (Cu²?) with phenylalanine, an amino acid, creating a structured assembly with a clearly defined active site. This structure helps ensure precise electron flow, similar to how natural enzymes work inside cells. Cu-Phen interacts specifically with cytochrome c, a protein central to the electron transport chain in cells. The nanozyme binds in a receptor-ligand fashion and uses a unique mechanism called proton-coupled electron transfer to efficiently reduce oxygen into water—avoiding the creation of harmful ROS in the process. These findings, recently published in the Journal of Materials Chemistry A, highlight the importance of active site design in the development of next-generation nanozymes. With better control over electron transfer, these artificial enzymes could play a key role in sustainable energy, medical innovations, and bio-compatible technologies. The study opens new doors for nanozyme research, showing how carefully engineered catalysts can seamlessly integrate into biological systems and safely enhance energy pathways.

Next Story
Infrastructure Transport

Railways approves major upgrade for Telangana traction lines

The Ministry of Railways has approved the upgradation of the electric traction system in two crucial railway sections — Medchal–Mudkhed (225 km) and Mahbubnagar–Dhone (184 km). The projects, costing Rs 1.93 billion and Rs 1.23 billion respectively, will enhance the electric traction capacity from 1X25 KV to 2X25 KV. The work includes modifications to circuit breakers and switching stations, along with the installation of additional conductors. These routes serve as vital links between Northern and Southern India via Hyderabad. Once completed, the upgraded system will reduce voltage dro..

Next Story
Infrastructure Transport

Adani to invest Rs 425 billion more in Maharashtra’s Dighi Port

The Adani Group has committed to invest an additional Rs 425 billion in the Dighi Port project, located along Maharashtra’s coastal Konkan belt, government officials announced on Monday. Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ)-run Dighi Ports signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Maharashtra government to undertake the expansion of the port and related infrastructure. This new commitment comes as part of a broader investment initiative by the state. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said the agreement is among 15 MoUs worth over Rs 560 billion signed during the opening d..

Next Story
Infrastructure Transport

HUDCO, JNPA sign Rs 50 billion deal for port development

In a strategic move, the Housing and Urban Development Corporation Ltd (HUDCO) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) for an investment of Rs 50 billion to revamp and develop port infrastructure. The non-binding agreement is intended to strengthen cooperation on both existing and upcoming infrastructure projects, with a focus on development, financing, and refinancing of port facilities at the Jawaharlal Nehru Port. The MoU was formalised with the signatures of Sanjay Kulshrestha, Chairman and Managing Director of HUDCO, and Unmesh Shar..

Advertisement

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world.

STAY CONNECTED

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Talk to us?