Selective biotransformations. Patents and literature

Stereo- and regioselective biotransformations is an area of intense research interest. The ability to take advantage of microorganisms and isolated enzyme systems to perform selective organic syntheses is well known. In recent years, several new methodologies have caused a rapid growth in the area of selective biotransformations. These novel techniques include genetic and protein engineering, biocatalysis in organic media, improved screening procedures, as well as an increased awareness of the value of biotechnology to solve important problems in organic synthesis. Recent US patents and scientific literature on stereo- and regioselective biotransformations are surveyed. Patent abstracts are summarized individually and a list of literature references are given.

Monoclonal antibodies for clinical applications. Patents and literature

The use of monoclonal antibodies for clinical applications has increased dramatically in the past few years. Monoclonal antibodies are used for the detection of bacterial and viral infections, determination of the presence and stage of cancer, and as diagnostics for the detection and quantitation of low molecular weight compounds of clinical and biochemical interest. The latter application has also taken place through the development of monoclonal antibody-based sensors. The ease of monoclonal antibody synthesis and their high degree of antigen specificity has made monoclonal antibodies ideal for the aforementioned clinical applications. Recent US patents and scientific literature on clinical applications of monoclonal antibodies are surveyed. Patent abstracts are summarized individually and a list of literature references are given.

Biocatalysis in nonaqueous media. Patents and literature

Biocatalysis in nonaqueous media is being used in increasing regularity both in academic and industrial research. A variety of biocatalysts have been used in organic media including enzymes, multi-enzyme systems, and whole cells. In addition, the nonaqueous media has encompassed both monophasic and biphasic solvent systems, enzymes and whole cells in reversed micelles, enzymes and cells in nearly anhydrous (no added water) solvents, and enzymes catalytically active in supercritical fluids and the gas phase. Recent US and overseas patents and scientific literature on biocatalysis in nonaqueous media are surveyed. Patent abstracts are summarized individually, and literature references are divided into major subheadings.

Horseradish peroxidase catalyzed hydroxylations: mechanistic studies

The hydroxylation of phenol to hydroquinone and catechol in the presence of dihydroxyfumaric acid and oxygen catalyzed by horseradish peroxidase was studied under conditions where the product yield was high and the side reactions were minimal. The reaction is partially uncoupled with a molar ratio of dihydroxyfumaric acid consumed to hydroxylated products of 12:1. Hydrogen peroxide does not participate in the reaction as evidenced by the lack of effect of catalase and by the direct addition of hydrogen peroxide. Conversely, superoxide and hydroxyl radicals are involved as their scavengers are potent inhibitors. Experiments were all consistent with the involvement of compound III (oxygenated ferrous complex) of peroxidase in the reaction. Compound III is stable in the presence of phenol alone but decomposes rapidly in the presence of both phenol and dihydroxyfumaric acid with the concomitant formation of product. Therefore, phenol and dihydroxyfumaric acid must be present with compound III in order for the hydroxylation reaction to occur. A mechanism consistent with the experimental results is proposed.