Biocatalyzed C−C Bond Formation for the Production of Alkaloids. Issue 21 (20th September 2018) - Patil, Mahesh D.
Abstract: Traditional methods of chemical synthesis of alkaloids exhibit various problems such as lack of enantioselectivity, the use of toxic chemical and intermediates, and multiple numbers of synthetic steps. Consequently, various enzymatic methods for the formation of C−C bonds in the alkaloid skeleton have been developed. Herein, we report advances achieved in the enzymatic or chemo‐enzymatic synthesis of pharmaceutically important alkaloids that employ three C−C bond forming enzymes: two Pictet‐Spenglerases and the oxidative C−C bond forming flavoenzyme Berberine Bridge Enzyme. Protein engineering studies, improving the substrate scope of these enzymes, and thereby leading to the synthesis of non‐natural alkaloids possessing higher or newer pharmacological activities, are also discussed. Furthermore, the integration of these biocatalysts with other enzymes, in multi‐enzymatic cascades for the enantioselective synthesis of alkaloids, is also reviewed. Current results suggest that these enzymes hold great promise for the generation of C−C bonds in the selective synthesis of alkaloid compounds possessing diverse pharmacological properties. Abstract : Enzymes for alkaloids : This review provides a comprehensive account of three important C−C bond forming enzymes, the Pictet‐Spenglerases Strictosidine synthase (STR) and Norcoclaurine synthase (NCS), and the oxidative C−C bond forming flavoenzyme Berberine Bridge Enzyme (BBE). Advances achieved in the enzymatic and chemo‐enzymatic synthesis of pharmaceutically important alkaloids are discussed.