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Updated: Aug 15, 2026

A Customizable Approach for the Enzymatic Production and Purification of Diterpenoid Natural Products
Published on: October 4, 2019
Biotransformation of terpenes
Carla C C R de Carvalho1, M Manuela R da Fonseca
1Centro de Engenharia Biológica e Química, Instituto Superior Técnico, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001 Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal. ccarvalho@ist.utl.pt
Abstract:
The main application of terpenes as fragrances and flavors depends on the absolute configuration of the compounds because enantiomers present different organoleptic properties. Biotransformations allow the production of regio- and stereoselective compounds under mild conditions. These products may be labeled as "natural". Commercially useful chemical building-blocks and pharmaceutical stereo isomers can also be produced by bioconversion of terpenes. Enzymes and extracts from bacteria, cyanobacteria, yeasts, microalgae, fungi, plants, and animal cells have been used for the production and/or bioconversion of terpenes. In addition, whole cell catalysis has also been used. A variety of media and reactors have been assessed for these biotransformations and have produced encouraging results, as discussed in this review.
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