White Biotechnology / Advances in Biochemical Engineering/Biotechnology Bd.105 (PDF)

Building Blocks (p. 133-134)

Lutz Hilterhaus, Andreas Liese
Institute for Technical Biocatalysis, Hamburg University of Technology, Denickestr. 15, 21073 Hamburg, Germany

Abstract This contribution illustrates the versatility of fundamental approaches in industrial biotransformations. The applicability of biotechnology in organic synthesis on an industrial scale is discussed, followed by an overview of historical development and future progress. This chapter depicts three different approaches for the use of biocatalysts in production processes: non-chiral synthesis, asymmetric synthesis, and racemic and dynamic resolution. Applications for whole cells and isolated enzymes as catalysts are introduced. Finally, critical but optimistic conclusions are given.

Keywords Building blocks · Non-chiral synthesis · Asymmetric synthesis · Racemic resolution

1 Introduction

Based on the analysis of technology, market trends, and current R&,D activities, McKinsey and Festel (in their very optimistic studies [1, 2]) estimate that biotechnology can be applied to the production of 10–20% of all chemicals by the year 2010. However, the rate at which biotechnology processes are introduced and used in different chemical markets varies. To prepare such products as .ne chemicals, for example, sugars are converted by tailormade microorganisms, enzymes, or chemico-physical treatment [3]. These may come from degradation of raw materials, including byproducts from agricultural sources and households. Typical products of industrial biotransformations include enzymes, vitamins, flavors, and fine chemicals such as chiral building blocks for the pharmaceutical industry [4]. These biochemicals may be divided into bulk chemicals and fine chemicals according to the amount produced and the price per ton.

This chapter illustrates the versatility of fundamental approaches in industrial biotransformation and