Recent developments and challenges of biocatalytic processes in the pharmaceutical industry

Enzymes are essential tools in the pharmaceutical industry rooting in historic processes for steroids and antibiotics. Recently new processes, based on engineered catalysts for asymmetric ketone reduction and reductive aminations, have been established and highlighted the potential for greener synthesis routes. While enzymatic processes can contribute to an increased sustainability in the synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) it is important to use established tools for correctly measuring their impact. Important factors for the assessment and implementation, as well as future perspectives of biocatalysis in the pharmaceutical industry are presented.