A glucose oxidase-hemoglobin system for efficient oxysulfonylation of alkenes/alkynes in water

Abstract Background β-ketosulfones are important bioactive compounds that have been extensively studied in organic chemistry. In this work, a green and efficient process for the synthesis of β-ketosulfones from alkenes (1) or alkynes (3) with sodium benzenesulfinate (2) was developed. Results Under optimal conditions (alkenes (0.5 mmol) or alkynes (0.5 mmol), sodium benzenesulfinate (0.5 mmol), water (2 mL), hemoproteins (heme concentration: 0.06 mol%), GOX (42 U/ml), room temperature, 2 h), high yields of β-ketosulfones could be obtained when HgbRb (hemoglobin from rabbit blood) and GOX (glucose oxidase from Aspergillus niger) was used as the catalyst. Conclusion This enzymatic method demonstrates the great potential for the synthesis of β-ketosulfones and extends the application of dual protein systems in organic synthesis.