Evolution in the test-tube as a means to create selective biocatalysts

Abstract

The development of chiral catalysts for use in synthetic organic chemistry is traditionally associated with progress in asymmetric transition metal catalysis or organocatalysis. In addition to these options chemists have employed enzymes for a number of asymmetric transformations for a long time. However, limited substrate acceptance and insufficient enantioselectivity are the crucial factors which prevent the general exploitation of biocatalysis in organic chemistry. In order to solve this long-standing problem, we proposed some time ago the concept of directed evolution of enantioselective enzymes. This report constitutes a short overview of the principle involved, together with a description of the first examples and the illumination of the present and future challenges. © Schweizerische Chemische Gesellschaft.