Introduction to Biocatalysis Using Enzymes and Microorganisms

This book gives an introduction to biotransformations, the practice of harnessing biological catalysts for the preparation of useful chemicals.

S. M. Roberts (Author), Nicholas J. Turner (Author), Andrew J. Willetts (Author), Michael K. Turner (Author)

9780521436854, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 27 January 1995

208 pages, 35 b/w illus. 19 tables
22.9 x 15.2 x 1.2 cm, 0.31 kg

' … the book is well presented and has few errors. It is a readable and affordable introduction for those new to this area, particularly synthetic chemists, and would also be useful for an advanced undergraduate or a postgraduate course in the subject.' Chemistry in Britain

This is an introductory text intended to give the non-specialist a comprehensive insight into the science of biotransformations. The book traces the history of biotransformations, clearly spells out the pros and cons of conducting enzyme-mediated versus whole-cell bioconversions, and gives a variety of examples wherein the bio-reaction is a key element in a reaction sequence leading from cheap starting materials to valuable end-products (such as pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals, fragrances and flavours). Biotransformations involving the hydrolysis of esters, amides and nitriles, the synthesis of esters and amides, reduction and oxidation reactions and carbon–carbon bond-forming systems are discussed. The book finishes with a discussion of some industrially important large-scale bioconversions.

Preface
1. An historical introduction to biocatalysis using enzymes and microorganisms
2. The inter-relationship between enzymes and cells with particular reference to whole-cell biotransformations using bacteria and fungi
3. Useful intermediates and end-products obtained from whole-cell/enzyme catalysed hydrolysis and esterification reactions
4. Useful intermediates and end-products obtained from biocatalysed oxidation and reduction reactions
5. Useful intermediates and end-products obtained from biocatalysed carbon–carbon, carbon–oxygen, carbon–nitrogen, and carbon–chalcogen bond-forming reactions
6. The application of biocatalysis to the manufacture of fine chemicals
Index.

Subject Areas: Microbiology [non-medical PSG], Enzymology [PSBZ]