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Updated: May 19, 2026

High-throughput Synthesis of Carbohydrates and Functionalization of Polyanhydride Nanoparticles
Published on: July 6, 2012
Enzymatic glycosylation of small molecules: challenging substrates require tailored catalysts
Tom Desmet1, Wim Soetaert, Pavla Bojarová
1University of Ghent, Centre for Industrial Biotechnology and Biocatalysis, Gent, Belgium.
Abstract:
Glycosylation can significantly improve the physicochemical and biological properties of small molecules like vitamins, antibiotics, flavors, and fragrances. The chemical synthesis of glycosides is, however, far from trivial and involves multistep routes that generate lots of waste. In this review, biocatalytic alternatives are presented that offer both stricter specificities and higher yields. The advantages and disadvantages of different enzyme classes are discussed and illustrated with a number of recent examples. Progress in the field of enzyme engineering and screening are expected to result in new applications of biocatalytic glycosylation reactions in various industrial sectors.
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