Asymmetric synthesis of β-hydroxy esters having three consecutive chiral centers with a reductase from bakers' yeast

Article abstract of DOI:10.1016/S0040-4039(98)02102-9

Asymmetric synthesis of methyl 2-alkyl-3-hydroxybutanoate having three consecutive chiral centers with a reductase from bakers' yeast has been investigated. When the enzyme is employed in the reduction of a β-keto ester substitute by a secondary alkyl group at α-position, the reaction affords the corresponding β-hydroxy ester in excellent stereoselectivity.