COMPARATIVE STUDY OF SYNTHESIS OF AMPICILLIN BY DIFFERENT SYNTHETIC ROUTES

Ampicillin is one of the key antibiotics which falls under the category of β-lactam and are commonly used to manage various bacterial infections. Ampicillin is synthesised by conjugating a particular side chain to the 6-aminopenicillanic acid (6-APA) backbone which enhances its antibacterial action and oral efficacy. This review describes how ampicillin is synthesized and its mechanism of action as well as the different methods of synthesis. The paper compares some of the chemical and enzymatic synthetic pathways. Chemical techniques are mixed anhydride, acid chloride and N-carboxyanhydride techniques and enzymatic techniques mainly involve the use of penicillin acylase which selectively reacts. Each of these ways has its advantages and disadvantages regarding the yield, cost, complexity, and industry application. Enzymatic methods are more selective, easier, and environmentally friendly as opposed to chemical methods which are unfriendly, yield high and need harsh conditions and multiple steps. In general, the contemporary synthesis is moving towards greener and more effective methods based on enzymes. This study provides a clear comparison of different synthetic routes and helps in understanding the development and improvement of ampicillin production.