The enzymatic asymmetric aldol reaction using acidic protease from Aspergillus usamii

AUAP (acidic protease from Aspergillus usamii) could catalyze the direct aldol reactions between aromatic aldehydes and cyclic ketones in acetonitrile (MeCN) in the presence of water. The enantioselectivities of up to 88% ee and diastereoselectivities of up to 97:3 (anti/syn) were achieved. This new activity of protease expands the application of the biocatalyst and provides a novel example of enzymatic promiscuity.