Nanotech News and Headlines

Stable Coacervate Microdroplets as Robust Microreactors for Enhanced Enzymatic Catalysis

Researchers have engineered highly stable coacervate microdroplets using polyethyleneimine (PEI) and sodium thioctate (ST) that resist coalescence for over 35 days without any additives. The droplets exploit electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions, creating a charge‑repelled surface that preserves structural integrity. They demonstrate exceptional molecular recruitment, accommodating small molecules, polymers, and proteins. When employed as enzymatic microreactors, they accelerate esterase‑catalyzed hydrolysis of 4‑nitrophenyl acetate up to 53‑fold, showcasing their potential for biomimetic catalysis.