Selective Oxidisation of Organic Compounds - Isis Project No 572

Isis Innovation, the technology transfer arm of the University of Oxford, releases an improved method for the selective oxidation of organic compounds using modified P450 enzymes.

Scientists in the University of Oxford's Department of Chemistry have developed a  bioprocessing technology that enables the selective oxidisation of organic compounds from C3 to C15 in size. Furthermore, the technology has the potential to produce compounds that are difficult or cannot be reproduced by synthetic chemistry. The technology has application in many fields including the production of fine chemicals, pharmaceutical intermediates, and flavours and fragrances. The initial application of this technology is to the oxidisation of terpenoid compounds. The terpenes that are normally of commercial interest are not the terpenes themselves, but rather the derivatives that commonly require stereoselective functionalisation at allylic as well as non-activated C-H bonds. This is one of the most difficult reactions to carry out by conventional methods since the highly reactive chemical oxidising agents utilised are typically non-selective.

THE OXFORD INVENTION

 

Oxford University's researchers have developed novel enzyme based ‘white biotechnology’ that has the capability to oxidise terpenes, or other hydrocarbons of interest.

Hydroxyl groups can readily be introduced into specific sites in the molecule with a high degree of stereoselectivity. Indeed non-activated C-H groups can be targeted. Typically the oxidation produces high yields of relatively pure compounds.

Diagram shows mutation of the active site of cytochrome P450 which enables a vast array of organic compounds to be targeted.

PATENT STATUS

This exciting Oxford invention is available for licence and we are actively seeking partners for the licensing and commercial development of this technology.

Request Further Information: Project Number 572 Selective Oxidisation of Organic Compounds