Enhanced descriptions from Syndetics:

This is an introductory text intended to give the newcomer to this area a comprehensive insight into the science of biotransformations. The book traces the history of biotransformations, clearly spells out the pros and cons of conducting enzyme-mediated versus whole-cell bioconversions, and gives a variety of examples wherein the bio-reaction is a key element in a reaction sequence leading from cheap starting materials to valuable end-products (such as pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals, fragrances and flavors). The authors cover biotransformations involving the hydrolysis of esters, amides and nitriles, the synthesis of esters and amides, reduction and oxidation reactions and carbon-carbon bond-forming systems. The book finishes with a discussion of some industrially important large-scale bioconversions. The text will be suitable for advanced undergraduates, graduate students, and professionals in the areas of biochemistry, organic chemistry, biotechnology, microbiology, and industrial chemistry.

Table of contents provided by Syndetics

• Preface
• 1 An historical introduction to biocatalysis using enzymes and microorganisms
• 2 The inter-relationship between enzymes and cells with particular reference to whole-cell biotransformations using bacteria and fungi
• 3 Useful intermediates and end-products obtained from whole-cell/enzyme catalysed hydrolysis and esterification reactions
• 4 Useful intermediates and end-products obtained from biocatalysed oxidation and reduction reactions
• 5 Useful intermediates and end-products obtained from biocatalysed carbon-carbon, carbon-oxygen, carbon-nitrogen, and carbon-chalcogen bond-forming reactions
• 6 The application of biocatalysis to the manufacture of fine chemicals
• Index

Reviews provided by Syndetics

CHOICE Review

This work focuses on enzyme-catalyzed reactions and whole-cell mediated transformations and their importance in synthetic organic chemistry. The book is well written and well organized; it begins with an interesting overview of the history of biocatalysis, especially in the context of the brewing industry in the 19th and 20th centuries. Chapter 2 provides basic information on whole-cell (bacteria and fungi) and purified enzyme systems, pointing out the advantages and disadvantages of approaches using different biocatalysts. Appendixes to chapter 2 provide useful information on, e.g., growing microorganisms and sources for cultures. Three subsequent chapters treat specific classes of reactions that can be carried out via biotransformations, and are replete with reactions that provide good examples. The last chapter presents biocatalysts in their roles in the manufacture of fine chemicals, highlighting the value of the specificity and selectivity of enzymes and the economic importance of large-scale production processes involving biocatalysts. A good introductory work that will be useful for scientists in many different fields. Undergraduate through faculty. J. A. Kelly; University of Connecticut