Synthesis of methyl propanoate by Baeyer-Villiger monooxygenases

Methyl propanoate is an important precursor for polymethyl methacrylates. The use of a Baeyer–Villiger monooxygenase (BVMO) to produce this compound was investigated. Several BVMOs were identified that produce the chemically non-preferred product methyl propanoate in addition to the normal product ethyl acetate.