Metals in Biotechnology: Cr-Driven Stereoselective Reduction of Conjugated C=C Double Bonds

Abstract

Elemental metals are shown to be suitable sacrificial electron donors to drive the stereoselective reduction of conjugated C=C double bonds using Old Yellow Enzymes as catalysts. Both direct electron transfer from the metal to the enzyme as well as mediated electron transfer is feasible, although the latter excels by higher reaction rates. The general applicability of this new chemoenzymatic reduction method is demonstrated, and current limitations are outlined.

Keywords: conjugated double bonds; direct regeneration; metals; old yellow enzymes; stereoselective reduction.