Trypsin-catalyzed multicomponent reaction: A novel and efficient one-pot synthesis of thiazole-2-imine derivatives

•First reported work on trypsin-catalyzed multicomponent reaction for the synthesis of thiazole-imine derivatives.•Trypsin was found to expand the promiscuous functions in organic synthesis.•This novel efficient protocol has the merits of convergent feature, high yield, simple operation, and environmental benign.

The first Trypsin from porcine pancreas catalyzed a novel one-pot three-component reaction of α-bromoketone, primary alkylamines, and phenylisothiocyanate for the synthesis of thiazole-imine derivatives with high yields (up to 98%) in a short time under mild conditions. The results revealed that Trypsin exhibited excellent catalytic activity and great tolerance for broad substrates. This Trypsin-catalyzed three component convergent method provides a novel strategy for the synthesis of thiazole-2-imine derivatives and expands the promiscuous functions of enzymes in organic synthesis.