BACKGROUNDThe development of techniques that enhance the catalytic activity and thermostability of enzymes continues to receive attention. Among many methods, the pretreatment approach is very attractive because its preparation is easy and no additives are required in the reaction system. In this study, the catalytic activities and thermostability of lipases pretreated with various carboxylic and perfluorocarboxylic acids were investigated for transesterification in an organic medium. RESULTSAll of the carboxylic and perfluorocarboxylic acids used in this study positively affected enzymatic activity and the bio-imprinting effects of pH and substrate analogues were observed. The lipase pretreated with heptafluorobutyric acid gave the highest initial rate. The pretreatment of lipase with carboxylic and perfluorocarboxylic acids enhanced its thermostability more than the untreated lipase. CONCLUSIONThe pretreatment of carboxylic and perfluorocarboxylic acids was effective for both catalytic activity and stabilization of lipase. (c) 2018 Society of Chemical Industry