Stereoselective biotransformations using fungi as biocatalysts

The development of novel biocatalytic methods is a continuously growing area of chemistry, microbiology, and genetic engineering due to the fact that biocatalysts are selective, easy-to-handle, and environmentally friendly. A wide range of reactions are catalyzed by microorganisms. Fungi can be considered as a promising source of new biocatalysts, mainly for chiral reactions. Chemo-, regio-, and stereoselective processes are very important in the synthesis of many chemical, pharmaceutical, and agrochemical intermediates; active pharmaceuticals; and food ingredients. This report reviews stereoselective reactions mediated by fungi, such as stereoselective hydroxylation, sulfoxidation, epoxidation, Baeyer–Villiger oxidation, deracemization, and stereo- and enantioselective reduction of ketones, published between 2000 and 2007.

Graphical abstractThis report reviews the stereoselective reactions mediated by fungi, such as stereoselective hydroxylation, sulfoxidation, epoxidation, Baeyer–Villiger oxidation, deracemization, and stereo- and enantioselective reduction of ketones, published over the period 2000–2007.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide