Candida parapsilosis: A versatile biocatalyst for organic oxidation-reduction reactions

Area of Science:

• Biocatalysis and Organic Synthesis
• Microbial Biotechnology

Background:

• The yeast Candida parapsilosis is recognized for its enzymatic capabilities in catalyzing organic transformations.
• Its utility in producing chiral synthons is crucial for pharmaceutical and fine chemical industries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the diverse applications of Candida parapsilosis as a biocatalyst for oxidation and reduction reactions.
• To highlight its efficiency in generating chiral synthons through various biotransformations.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing whole cells (wild type and recombinant), purified oxidoreductases, and immobilized cells of C. parapsilosis.
• Investigating chemo-, regio-, and stereoselectivity in biotransformations of various organic substrates.
• Examining fermentation scale biocatalysis for industrial applications.

Main Results:

• C. parapsilosis effectively catalyzes deracemization, enantioselective reduction of ketones and imines, and kinetic resolution of alcohols.
• High optical purity of products is achieved through these biocatalytic processes.
• Comparison with other biocatalysts demonstrates C. parapsilosis's advantages for specific transformations.

Conclusions:

• Candida parapsilosis is a highly versatile and efficient biocatalyst for synthesizing enantiopure compounds.
• It can be considered a valuable 'reagent' for a wide range of organic transformations, suitable for large-scale operations.