Critical review of advances in laccase immobilization on metal-organic frameworks: From molecular mechanisms to technological implementation

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as promising supports for laccase immobilization, offering tunable porosity, high surface area, and chemical stability. To systematically assess advances in this field, we conducted a PRISMA-guided review of 251 records across Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and PubMed, from which 88 experimental studies (2015–2025) met inclusion criteria. Analysis revealed that zeolitic imidazolate frameworks, particularly ZIF-8, dominate current Lac@MOF research due to their mild synthesis conditions and protective encapsulation properties. Functionalization strategies consistently improved enzyme stability, reusability, and pollutant degradation efficiency, with applications ranging from dye removal to pharmaceutical residues. However, most studies remain confined to batch experiments, with limited mechanistic validation, scarce evaluation of transformation product toxicity and progress toward reactor-scale or industrial implementation. Future work should integrate computational modeling, standardized activity protocols, and process engineering approaches to enable technological scale-up or guided rational design. Advancing these dimensions is essential to establish Lac@MOF composites as robust and sustainable biocatalysts for environmental remediation.