Semiquantitative process screening for the biocatalytic synthesis of D-xylulose-5-phosphate

In this paper we report a method of semiquantitative process screening or route scouting developed to reduce the number of potential process flowsheets for a multistep biocatalytic conversion. Using the dual-enzyme-based synthesis of D-xylulose-5- phosphate as a model, a variety of possible processes was identified. Using data from a limited number of key experiments describing important process attributes, a screening procedure was proposed. Unattractive processes were eliminated early, and the best candidates were put forward as potential options for subsequent development. The method should prove applicable to a range of process synthesis problems.