Biomimetic and biopolymer-based enzyme encapsulation

[Display omitted] •Modifiable protein capsules allow the encapsulation of enzyme constructs.•DNA-based capsules in the nm to μm scale offer precise control over the shape.•Carbohydrate capsules are ideal for use in cosmetic, food & oral drug delivery.•Lipid and polymer-based particles cover a size range from 100 nm to hundreds of μm.•Biomineralization inspires generation of morphologically diverse silica particles.•Composite structures meld advantages of different materials. Encapsulated enzymes are stable under various conditions and used in enzyme therapy, catalysis, and biosensors. The capsules are often inspired by structures from nature such as viral capsids, DNA motifs and diatom frustules. They are based on inorganic minerals as well as soft or polymeric materials, or even a combination of these. The choice of material influences the enzyme loading and response to heat, pH and presence of proteases. This review provides a comparison of enzyme encapsulation based on these different principles with a focus on materials inspired by nature.