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Biotransformation of α-Acetylbutyrolactone in Rhodotorula Strains

Summary

This research explored using different types of yeast to transform one chemical compound into another with very specific 3D structures. This is important because the specific 3D shape of molecules can affect how they work in medicines and other applications. Impacts on everyday life: • Helps develop more efficient and environmentally friendly ways to make pharmaceutical compounds • Advances our understanding of how to produce pure forms of medicines with fewer side effects • Demonstrates sustainable alternatives to traditional chemical manufacturing processes • Could lead to improved production methods for various medical and industrial compounds • Shows potential for using natural organisms instead of harsh chemicals in manufacturing

Background

Rhodotorula yeasts are ubiquitous saprophytic organisms found in environmental sources like air, soil, grass, lakes, oceans, food and human skin. These strains are known for their ability to reduce low-molecular-weight ketones and ketoesters. The product of α-acetylbutyrolactone reduction could be potential central nervous system ligands due to structural similarity with γ-butyrolactone (GBL).

Objective

To investigate the biotransformation of α-acetylbutyrolactone using three Rhodotorula strains to obtain enantiomerically enriched alcohol products. The study aimed to examine how media composition and organic solvent volume affected stereoselectivity and effectiveness of the biotransformation process.

Results

The R. marina AM77 strain achieved complete substrate conversion in just 3 hours in YPG medium. Using 5% glycerol supplementation, enantiomerically pure (3R,1’S)-α’-1′-hydroxyethyl-γ-butyrolactone was obtained after 2 hours. The addition of organic solvents improved stereoselectivity but reduced reaction rates. DES supplementation prolonged biotransformation times and reduced stereoselectivity.

Conclusion

YPG was found to be the optimal medium for biotransformation. R. marina AM77 and R. rubra C9 strains showed complete conversion within 3 hours. The most common product was (+)-(3R,1’S)-α’-1′-hydroxyethyl-γ-butyrolactone. While organic solvents improved enantioselectivity, they decreased reactivity. DES had overall negative effects on the biotransformation process.
  • Published in:International Journal of Molecular Sciences,
  • Study Type:Laboratory Research,
  • Source: 10.3390/ijms19072106
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