Kurt Faber, Biotransformations in Organic Chemistry, Springer Verlag 2011
Learning Objectives
Skills in identifying biocompatible methodologies as an alternative to classical organic synthesis for the obtainement of products with various applications (cosmetic, pharmacological, agrochemical, and so on).
Prerequisites
Basic knowledge of Organic Chemistry.
Teaching Methods
Frontal lessons
Further information
Before taking the test, the student has to pass the following exams: Mathematics and Statistics; Physics; General and Inorganic Chemistry; Organic Chemistry; General Biology.
Type of Assessment
Written test aimed at verifying the understanding of the topics of the course and their application in practical problems solving.
Course program
Biotransformations: use and limits. Enzyme selectivity and models for its explanation. Enzyme classification. Hydrolases: mechanism and applications of esterases and lipases. Kinetic resolution. Meso trick. Reactions in non aqueous medium. Oxidoreductases: use of isolated enzymes and microorganisms. Vegetable systems. Use of multienzymatic systems for fragrances production. Aldolases. Modified biocatalysts: immobilised enzymes, conformational engineering. Active site modification. Artificial cells. Catalytic antibodies. Biodegradation of organic chemical compounds both natural and synthetic.