LIPASE-CATALYZED SYNTHESIS OF A SUGAR ESTER-CONTAINING ARACHIDONIC-ACID

An enzymatic synthesis of sugar ester from 1,2-o-isoprylidene-D-xylofu ranose and fatty acid was studied. Optimal conditions for ester synthe sis catalyzed by lipase were established. Lipases N-435 and IM resulte d in the highest extent of esterification. The optimum temperature for the sugar ester synthesis reaction by lipase N-435 was 60 degrees C. When the arachidonic acid to 1,2-o-isopropylidene-D-xylofuranose ratio was 1-2:1, a maximum conversion of 83-85% was obtained. After the rea ction, the enzyme was easily separated and recovered for reuse. The ch emical structure of the sugar ester was confirmed to be xylose 5-arach idonate by nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry. (C) 1997 by Elsevier Science Inc.