Anti-Prelog reduction of ketones by hairy root cultures

Raphanus sativus hairy roots were used in the anti-Prelog stereoselective reduction of a series of prochiral alkylaryl-ketones. Most of the bioreactions proceeded with high yields and excellent enantioselectivities. This novel biocatalyst is an easy handle system that allows the employment of the immense potential of plant enzymes in preparative asymmetric chemistry. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.