Lipase-Catalyzed Stereoselective Cross-Aldol Reaction Promoted by Water

PPL, lipase from porcine pancreas, is first reported to catalyze direct asymmetric aldol reactions between aromatic aldehydes and cyclic ketones. More importantly, the catalytic activity of PPL was greatly promoted by a small quantity of water at 37 °C. A wide range of aromatic aldehydes reacted with cyclic ketones to provide the corresponding aldol products with high yields (up to 99 %) and moderate to good stereoselectivity (up to 90 % ee and 99:1 dr). Lip synthing: A lipase‐catalyzed, green, and efficient approach for the cross‐aldol reaction promoted by water with high yield and good stereoselectivity is described.