Dynamic kinetic resolution of secondary alcohols by enzyme–metal combinations in ionic liquid

Abstract

Dynamic kinetic resolutions (DKRs) of secondary alcohols by lipase–ruthenium or subtilisin–ruthenium combo-catalysis were successfully accomplished in an ionic liquid, [BMIM]PF6 ([BMIM] = 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium), in the presence of an acyl donor to provide (R)- or (S)-esters of high optical purities in good yields. Ionic liquid as solvent was essential for the successful performance of the DKRs at room temperature since its use enhanced the activity of the racemizing ruthenium catalyst.