Papain-catalyzed aldol reaction for the synthesis of trifluoromethyl carbinol derivatives

• Papain-catalyzed aldol reaction was described.
• 17 examples of aldol products were obtained by this reaction.
• The novel reaction also expands the field of organic synthesis.
• This work promotes the development of enzyme catalytic promiscuity.

Papain from Carica papaya demonstrated catalytic promiscuity was first discovered to catalyze the synthesis of trifluoromethyl carbinol derivatives via aldol reaction between α,α,α-trifluoromethyl ketones and aliphatic ketones in a mixed solvent of DMF and water. The best results of the corresponding aldol products with up to 99% yield and 30% ee were achieved.

Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slidePapain was used for the first time as a biocatalyst in aldolreaction between α,α,α-trifluoromethyl ketones and aliphatic ketones.