Efficient synthesis of 2,6-bis(hydroxymethyl)pyridine using whole-cell biocatalysis

We demonstrate a novel one-pot biocatalytic process for the preparation of a versatile chemical intermediate, 2,6-bis(hydroxymethyl)pyridine, from naturally-occurring 2,6-lutidine using recombinant microbial whole cells as a catalysts. After scale up, the bioconversion enabled titers exceeding 12 g L-1 with a space-time yield of 0.8 g L-1 h(-1). This biocatalytic route offers a simpler and more sustainable alternative to multistep organic synthesis protocols.

Automated summary

In this study, a novel one-pot biocatalytic process was demonstrated using recombinant microbial whole cells as catalysts to prepare a versatile chemical intermediate 2,6-bis(hydroxymethyl)pyridine from naturally-occurring 2,6-lutidine. After scale up, bioconversion achieved titers exceeding 12 g L-1 with a space-time yield of 0.8 g L-1 h(-1), offering a simpler and more sustainable alternative to multistep organic synthesis protocols.