Mass transport limitations reduce the effective stereospecificity in enzyme-catalyzed kinetic resolution

The kinetic resolution of seudenol catalyzed by Candida antarctica lipase a in hexane was investigated. Large differences in reaction rate and stereos pecificity were observed when different enzyme preparations were used, Thes e differences were ascribed to mass transport limitations which reduced bot h reaction rate and stereospecificity. Lyophilized enzyme preparations were more apt to give this problem than immobilized preparations. Further, low substrate concentrations enhanced the effect. Thus, high alcohol concentrat ions and enzyme immobilization can be recommended.