Synthesis of Chirally Pure Enantiomers by Lipase

Pure enantiomers can be produced by chemical and enzymatic methods. Enzymatic methods to produce pure enantiomers are more advantageous. High enantiomeric excess is the advantage of enzymatic method, resulting from the inherent selectivity of the enzyme. Lipase (EC 3.1.1.3) enzymes are widely used for the synthesis of chirally pure enantiomers because of their stereoselectivities which can satisfy the growing demand for obtaining optically active compounds. Various methods are used for the synthesis of chirally pure enantiomers, however kinetic resolution and asymmetric synthesis are more common. The ability to produce enantiomerically pure compounds is probably most important in the pharmaceutical industry, where approximately 80% of the drugs currently under development are chiral. The main problems regarding the use of lipases are the cost of lipase and slower reaction rate. However, by immobilizing the enzyme on a suitable matrix or support, this problem can be solved. Furthermore, immobilization of enzyme increases the chances of re-usability.