In the recent era, scientists and researchers are working day in and day out to get their hands on some bio-based resources in the form of chemicals and enzymes. Moreover, in today’s world there is an increasing need for such bio-based products, and the first and foremost reason for the same is population explosion. In order to cater to the needs for the never-ending population, often resources are exploited beyond their capacity which poses a great threat to the sustainability of a particular resource.Bio-based chemicals and enzymes thus act as a life-saver compared to the conventional sources where either a single resource like plant/animal or their particular species were being exploited mercilessly. The Bio-based products provide a wide range which in turn prevents over-exploitation. Moreover, often Bio-Based Chemicals and enzymes pave a way for sustainability in the usage of a particular resource.A very fine example of bio-based enzyme is BROMELAIN derived primarily from pineapples (Ananas comosus), especially from the fruit and stem. This bio-based product is something which helps in proper utilization of resources and paves the way towards sustainability.Bromelain has been found to effectively treat burns as per research due to the proteolytic properties. Bromelain contains cysteine proteases which in turn are the primary active enzymes that break down protein by cleaving peptide bonds.The proteases mainly are ANANAIN and COMOSAIN. Presence of additional enzymes like peroxidase and acid phosphatases contributes to the overall efficacy inspite of being present in infinitesimal amounts.Bromelain works by enzymatic debridement where the proteases help in break down and digestion of necrotic tissue which in turn leads to exposure of healthy tissue thereby preventing localized infection. It also acts by inhibiting pro inflammatory cytokines such as INTERLEUKIN-1(IL-1) and Tumor Necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α).The action leads to reduced inflammatory response. Also the immunomodulatory activities enhances activity of macrophages at the site of burn thus clearing debris. It also reduces vascular permeability preventing edema. Thus pineapples are not just fruits but are way more useful.Another fine example BIO BASED CHEMICALS is PLA (Polylactic acid) which finds its use extensively in the healthcare as a biodegradable polymer. Thus natural in origin, also being a derivative of Nature friendly resources like sugarcane or cornstarch, thereby lowering the threat of exploitation. PLA is extensively used in surgical sutures because when PLA is exposed to physiological conditions,it hydrolyses into lactic acid and thus post surgery these sutures need not be removed which simplifies the drug delivery system is an important aspect where PLA is used because of its useful property of controlled release of drugs without harming the non target sites as PLA hydrolyses gradually to release the drug leading to a slow and sustained release needed for the particular treatment plan.It also maintains the therapeutic levels for a long time leading to increased efficacy.Also risk of exaggerated response to PLA is quite low,thus eliminating long term risks. Thus “Bio Based Chemicals and Enzymes”are known for their hallmark features of sustainability, biodegradability, biocompatibility.

Ankita Das

University/College name : SHIVAJI COLLEGE, UNIVERSITY OF DELHI