Synthesis of valuable compounds through biocatalysis in expanded liquid with dissolved carbon dioxide

2023 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 19K05560
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (C)
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Section: 一般
• Review Section: Basic Section 34030:Green sustainable chemistry and environmental chemistry-related
• Research Institution: Tokyo Institute of Technology
• Principal Investigator: Matsuda Tomoko 東京工業大学, 生命理工学院, 准教授 (10319494)
• Co-Investigator(Kenkyū-buntansha): 山中 理央 姫路獨協大学, 薬学部, 准教授 (40454764)
• Project Period (FY): 2019-04-01 – 2022-03-31
• Keywords: グリーンケミストリー

Outline of Final Research Achievements

Organic synthesis reactions are essential for the production of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and various other products. These reactions often rely on catalysts to increase efficiency and selectivity. In our study, we aimed to develop an environmentally friendly approach to organic synthesis. We specifically utilized enzymes as catalysts, due to their high selectivity and ability to minimize the formation of byproducts (impurities). To further enhance the sustainability, we employed carbon dioxide-expanded liquids as the reaction solvents. These innovative solvents are created by dissolving carbon dioxide in liquids. This choice of solvent not only supports our environmental objectives but also contributes to the efficiency and effectiveness of the reaction process. In summary, our study successfully developed an organic synthesis reaction that integrates enzymes as catalysts and carbon dioxide-expanded liquids as solvents.

Free Research Field

生体触媒化学

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

本研究では、酵素を触媒とし、二酸化炭素膨張液体を溶媒として用いる新しい有機合成反応を開発した。学術的意義は、酵素工学の分野を発展させたことである。本研究以前には、このような溶媒中での酵素の触媒能は未知であったが、本研究で、効率的かつ選択的に反応を触媒することを見出した。社会的意義は、環境負荷低減技術の提供による持続的社会の構築への貢献である。この新規有機合成法は、製薬業界などに持続可能な製造プロセスを提供する可能性があり、さらに、二酸化炭素の有効利用は、温室効果ガス削減の一助となり、地球環境保護に貢献する。