Cryoimmobilized enzymes and cells in organic synthesis

Abstract

Novel approaches to effectuation of complex organic reactions with the use of immobilized enzymes and cells are discussed. A new class of methods to obtain immobilized cells has been developed on the basis of entrapment of the cells in polymers upon their cryostructuring. The properties of the obtained heterogeneous catalysts and the basic advantages of cryoimmobilization are considered: - the method is reagentless and the immobilization procedure is “gentle”, which affords the entrapment of any cells, including those of animals and man; - the possibility for effectuation of involved processes with regeneration of cofactors and enzymes; - the possibility for creation of very stable systems functioning for a few years; - the possibilities for conducting the reactions in organic solvents. The properties of cryoimmobilized enzymes and cells are demostrated by some examples. These are a) the realization of a deep reduction of carbonic acid to ethanol, acetate and hydrocarbons; b) the bioelectrocatalytic reactions as an alternative to photosynthesis; c) the biocatalytic conversion of carbohydrates to alcohols, organic acids, amino acids and vitamins; and d) the biocatalytic conversion of polyunsaturated fatty acids to prostaglandins. © 1992, IUPAC