Biocatalysis for cascade reactions to produce high-value chemicals

Abstract Cascade biocatalysis that performs two or more consecutive biocatalytic reactions in one-pot is an important technology. Compared with stepwise synthesis, cascade biocatalysis avoids isolation of intermediates and toxic reagents and reduces operation procedures, production cost, and waste generation. Herein, we discuss the basic concept of cascade biocatalysis and highlight some recent applications in the preparation of high-value chemicals, such as chiral amines, hydroxyacids, amino acids, and lactones, from cheap and readily available petroleum or biochemical feedstocks.