Lipases as Efficient Catalysts in the Synthesis of Monomers and Polymers with Biomedical Applications

Abstract

Enzymatic polymerization shows to be an advantageous approach in polymer chemistry, particularly in the case of obtaining polymers required for biomedical applications, which are intented for human consumption. Enzymes apply procedures that are environmentally friendly involving waste minimization, hazard reduction, the efficient use of energy and the use of renewable sources. This paper reviews selected examples of the recent progress in lipase-catalyzed polymerization. The application of this hydrolase in the synthesis of polyesters, polycarbonates and polyamides following traditional mechanisms is covered. Moreover, lipase-catalyzed synthesis of novel vinyl copolymers and monomers is described. Keywords: Lipase-catalyzed polymerization, monomers, biomedical applications.