Biocatalysis in Organic Chemistry

The course is an introduction to the use of enzymes and whole cells as catalysts in organic chemistry with special emphasis on regio- and stereo-selectivity of biocatalysis. Different aspects of asymmetric synthesis and kinetic resolutions will be treated. The use of different enzyme classes and significance of varying solvents, water content in organic media, temperature and furthermore, methods for regeneration of co-factors and immobilization techniques will be discussed. Finally, some examples of use of enzymic processes in industry will be demonstrated.

Green Chemistry is a concept used for the development of chemical processes where pollution is minimized. The student i supposed to aquire knowledge about enzymes and whole cells as catalysts as a means to achieve more efficient and cleaner synthetic procedures. The course comprises description of biocatalysts and their use in order to optimize synthesis with respect to selectivity and environmentally friendly processes both in research and industry.

Lectures and exercises in seminars (4 hours per week). Oral examination if 5 or fewer students. English teaching by request.