Using biotechnology in the laboratory: Using an immobilized- laccase reactor-system to learn about wastewater treatment

Abstract

This article includes a practical guide, which was used to teach the phenomenon of immobilization of enzymes and their subsequent use for discoloration of dyes to under-graduate students of Biotechnology at the Rovira i Virgili University (Tarragona, Spain). Alginate was selected as a support for the immobilization of laccase. Remazol Brilliant Blue R (RBBR) was used as a substrate for laccase because it is easy to see the color change from dark blue to light blue or no color depending on the discoloration ability of the enzyme. Colorimetric methods to determine the amount of encapsulated enzyme, the effect of the immobilization, and the rate of the discoloration were also pursued by the students. © 2009 by The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.