Towards catalytic cascade reactions: asymmetric synthesis using combined chemo-enzymatic catalysts

The combination of immobilised Rh-MonoPhos (5-AlTUD-1) and Acylase I afforded a chemo-enzymatic one-pot process for the enantioselective synthesis of amino acids in water, without the need for isolation of intermediates. In addition, the enzymatic hydrolysis increases the enantiopurity of the product from 95% ee to > 98% ee. Compatibility studies revealed that compartmentalisation of the catalysts is essential to achieve high yields and optical purities.