Lipase-catalyzed transesterification in organic solvents: Applications to the preparation of enantiomerically pure compounds

Lipases (triacylglycerol acylhydrolases, EC 3.1.1.3) can be used for the synthesis of esters by transesterification with activated and nonactivated acyl donors in organic solvents. The reaction is especially useful for the preparation of optically active compounds, which are formed by resolution or asymmetrization of racemic or prochiral suitable substrates. This review offers an overview of the state of the art through examples chosen from the most recent literature, focusing mainly on the preparation of enantiomerically pure products which can be formed by this enzymatic approach.