Tandem One-Pot Biocatalytic Oxidation and Wittig Reaction in Water

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.