A mild and chemoselective CALB biocatalysed synthesis of sulfoxides exploiting the dual role of AcOEt as solvent and reagent.

Abstract

A mild, chemoselective and sustainable biocatalysed synthesis of sulfoxides has been developed exploiting CALB and using AcOEt with a dual role of more environmentally friendly reaction solvent and enzyme substrate. A series of sulfoxides, including the drug omeprazole, have been synthesised in high yields and with excellent E-factors.