Asymmetric synthesis of amines by action of baker's yeast on oximes

Abstract

Chiral 2-aminobutane (58% e.e. of (R) - isomer) was obtained from 2-butanone oxime (44% excess of (E)-isomer) by fermenting bakerus yeast. The less toxic 2-butanone oxime acetate (40% excess of (E)-isomer) also yielded chiral amine, 24% e.e. (R)-isomer.