Biocatalytic Aldol Addition Reactions by Lipase from Aspergillus oryzae

This study explored the catalytic promiscuity of a lipase from Aspergillus oryzae, showing its ability to facilitate an aldol reaction between 4-nitrobenzaldehyde and cyclohexanone. Optimization of conditions— specifically, using acetonitrile as the solvent at 30 °C with 5% water content, a 35:1 molar ratio of cyclohexanone to 4-nitrobenzaldehyde, and an enzyme concentration of 20 mg/mL—led to a 95% conversion, with an 83:17 diastereomeric ratio of the products and 80% enantiomeric excess of anti-products. The findings demonstrated the enzyme’s potential in organic synthesis, expanding its biocatalytic applications.