Novel, Non-aqueous Bioconversion Systems Using Fungal Spores

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Enzyme catalysis
• Organic synthesis

Background:

• Non-aqueous bioconversion systems offer advantages for enzymatic reactions.
• Fungal spores can be utilized as biocatalysts in organic solvents.
• Developing robust systems for bioconversion is crucial for sustainable chemistry.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate two novel non-aqueous bioconversion systems using fungal spores.
• To investigate the catalytic activity of fungal spores in various organic solvents.
• To compare the performance of spores immobilized on filter pads versus entrapped in alginate beads.

Main Methods:

• Construction of non-aqueous bioconversion systems using Aspergillus sojae spores.
• Immobilization of spores on filter pads and entrapment in calcium alginate beads.
• Model reaction: reduction of benzil to benzoin using glycerol as a hydride source.

Main Results:

• Spores on filter pads catalyzed benzil reduction in toxic solvents like methylcyclohexane and di-n-butyl ether, showing a positive correlation with log P values.
• Reduction occurred even in the hydrophilic solvent tert-butyl acetate.
• Alginate-entrapped spores demonstrated stable reusability in di-n-hexyl ether but showed decreased activity after repeated use in tert-butyl acetate.

Conclusions:

• Novel non-aqueous bioconversion systems using fungal spores are effective for benzil reduction.
• Spore immobilization strategies influence catalytic activity and stability in different organic solvents.
• Fungal spores offer a promising biocatalyst for reactions in challenging organic media.