Lipase catalyzed 1,2-addition of thiols to imines under mild conditions

This is the first report of enzymes used as biocatalysts for a 1,2-sulfur addition. In this study, we describe the synthesis of N,S-acetals using an environmentally friendly process with low catalyst loading and in short reaction times using porcine pancreatic lipase, chymosin, and bovine serum albumin (BSA). The hydrogen bond between the enzyme and the N-Boc imine is a key factor in this reaction.