Rapid Development of a Scalable Reduction of <i>R</i>-Carvone Utilizing Commercially Available Biocatalysts

This work demonstrates the rapid optimization and scale-up of biocatalytic cascades in early development programs, achieving efficient results without the need for lengthy upfront evolution campaigns which are expensive and often do not meet project delivery timelines, which range from 6 to 12 months. By utilizing readily available enzymes, we were able to streamline the process from initial screening to a 100 g reaction, highlighting the feasibility and benefits of this approach in a significantly reduced time frame. Specifically, the ERED- and KRED-catalyzed reduction of R-carvone is described, which allows access to R,R,R-dihydrocarveol with high enantio- and diastereoselectivity under mild conditions.