Abstract
Objective: Microwave technology, together with enzymatic catalysis, is a nature-friendly chemical synthesis method with low wastage of solvent and a good yield of the products.
Methods: Enzymes from various microorganisms can be used in the biochemical processes of a wide range of compounds assisted by microwave irradiation.
Results: In this work, the microwave-induced reaction of alpha-keto beta-lactams by Baker's yeast in organic solvent was conducted to afford optically active cis and trans-alpha-hydroxy-beta-lactams for the first time.
Conclusion: These hydroxy compounds are the precursors of numerous natural products of medicinal significance.