MML-catalyzed direct aldol reaction in green solvents

Abstract

The catalytic promiscuity of MML, lipase from Mucor miehei, was reported to catalyze direct aldol reactions between aromatic aldehydes and cyclic ketones in water, ionic liquids, and deep eutectic solvents at 50 °C. Water can promote the catalytic activity of MML. A wide range of aromatic aldehydes reacted with cyclic ketones to provide the corresponding aldol products with high yields (up to 87.2%) and moderate to good diastereoselectivity (up to 3:97 dr).