Biocatalytic Synthesis of Chiral Pharmaceutical Intermediates

Ramesh N. Patel

Process R & D, Bristol-Myers Squibb, New Brunswick, NJ 08903, USA

Article history:
Received July 29, 2004
Accepted November 22, 2004

Key words:
biocatalysis, chiral intermediates, antiviral, anticancer, antihypertensive, anti-infective, receptor agonists/antagonists, enantioselective enzymatic de-protection

Summary:
The production of single enantiomers of drug intermediates has become increasingly important in the pharmaceutical industry. Chiral intermediates and fine chemicals are in high demand from both the pharmaceutical and agrochemical industries for the preparation of bulk drug substances and agricultural products. The enormous potential of microorganisms and enzymes for the transformation of synthetic chemicals with high chemo-, regio- and enantioselectivities has been demonstrated. In this article, biocatalytic processes are described for the synthesis of chiral pharmaceutical intermediates.

*Corresponding author:    ramesh.patel@bms.com