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Updated: Jun 18, 2025

Efficient Synthesis of Polyfunctionalized Benzenes in Water via Persulfate-promoted Benzannulation of α,β-Unsaturated Compounds and Alkynes
Published on: December 16, 2019
Tandem One-Pot Biocatalytic Oxidation and Wittig Reaction in Water
Alice J C Wahart1, Liam N D Beardmore1, Robert A Field2
1School of Chemical and Physical Sciences and Centre for Glycoscience, Keele University, Keele, Staffordshire ST5 5BG, U.K.
Abstract:
We explore biocatalytic aldehyde generation under aqueous conditions, concomitantly delivering access to a one-pot Wittig reaction using stabilized phosphoranes and granting diverse alkene products. Using a recombinant choline oxidase mutant, we first undertake biocatalytic alcohol oxidation across a range of functional aliphatic primary alcohols, demonstrating a remarkable substrate tolerance for this enzyme, including chloride, bromide, azide, S-methyl, and alkynyl groups. Following this, we extend capability and deliver a practicable milligram-scale one-pot Wittig reaction in water.
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