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

India’s Maha Kumbh of Road Construction

The RAHSTA Forum 2025, held on June 25 at Courtyard by Marriott, Mumbai, delivered powerful insights and dialogue on the future of India’s roads and highways sector. Organised by the FIRST Construction Council, the Forum served as the curtain-raiser to the much-anticipated RAHSTA Expo 2025, set to take place on 3rd and 4th September at the Jio Convention Centre, Mumbai.Union Minister of Roads Transport & Highways Shri Nitin Gadkari, while appreciating the efforts of FIRST Construction Council and ASAPP Info Global Group, commended the awards which recognise excellence across various..

Next Story
Real Estate

Built to Last, Designed to Impress

The construction and interior design industries stand at the confluence of functionality and aesthetics, where innovation powers the creation of enduring structures and inspiring spaces. At the heart of this process are materials and solutions that enable architects, designers, and builders to realise their visions with precision and reliability.Featuring iconic brands such as Fevicol—synonymous with adhesive solutions—Dr. Fixit, a complete waterproofing system renowned for addressing every critical area of construction, and Roff, a specialist in tile-fixing solutions, Pidilite has earned ..

Next Story
Infrastructure Energy

New Push to Cut India’s Air Pollution through Power Sector Reforms

In a significant stride toward environmental sustainability, Cummins India introduced CPCB IV+ compliant gensets to India on July 5, 2023, marking a paradigm shift in the power generation industry. These generators are engineered to adhere to the progressive emission norms set by the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change. Being the first sets in the field, they have garnered praise for their remarkable achievements in emissions reduction and cutting-edge technology. Powerica, with its four-decade-long partnership with Cummins India Limited, is dedicated to consistently deliver th..

Advertisement

Advertisement

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world.

STAY CONNECTED

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Talk to us?