On-line enzyme activity determination using the stopped-flow technique: Application to laccase activity in pulp mill waste-water treatment

An automated system for on-line measurement of enzyme activity is proposed. The system uses a flow injection manifold in the stopped-flow mode to measure initial reaction rates. The time during which the flow is halted is selected in such a way as to optimise the enzyme/substrate ratio for the correct determination of activity values. The proposed system was used to determine the activity of laccase produced by the fungus Tranceres versicolor immobilised on nylon in a fixed-bed reactor used for treating pulp mill waste water.