Improvement of the biocatalytic properties of one phenylacetone monooxygenase mutant in hydrophilic organic solvents

The presence of different hydrophilic organic solvents or a water soluble polymer such as PEG 4000 led to an enhancement in the enzymatic activity of the M446G mutant of phenylacetone monooxygenase when it is employed in enantioselective sulfoxidations and Baeyer–Villiger reactions. By solvent engineering new substrates were found to be effectively converted by this Baeyer–Villiger monooxygenase. The use of 5% methanol together with the weak anion exchange resin Lewatit MP62 also allows the dynamic kinetic resolution of a set of racemic benzylketones. By this approach (S)-benzylesters could be obtained with high yields and optical purities.

► The effect of organic solvents on M446G mutant of phenylacetone monooxygenase was examined.
► Presence of hydrophilic solvents led to an increase in the enzymatic activity.
► The use of 5% methanol combined with anion exchange resins allowed DKR processes.