Catalytic procedures are clearly the most economical means to effect
selective processes in organic synthesis. For the preparation of
enantiomerically pure compounds, the utilization of enzymes is
particularly attractive because of high selectivities and mild,
environmentally benign reaction conditions. Taking advantage of advances
in molecular biology, unique new enzymes are now readily accessible in
quantity with properties that are amenable to modification on demand.
This volume brings together leading contributors from the forefront of
this exciting technology. In their authoritative and timely reviews they
cover the state-of-the-art of biocatalysis from the discovery of novel
enzymes - by modern screening, evolutionary or immunological
approaches - through immobilization techniques for technical processes,
to their use in the asymmetric synthesis of important target compounds.