Biosynthesis of Medium- to Long-Chain α,ω-Diols from Free Fatty Acids Using CYP153A Monooxygenase, Carboxylic Acid Reductase, and E. coli Endogenous Aldehyde Reductases

α,ω-Diols are important monomers widely used for the production of polyesters and polyurethanes. Here, biosynthesis of α,ω-diols (C8–C16) from renewable free fatty acids using CYP153A monooxygenase, carboxylic acid reductase, and E. coli endogenous aldehyde reductases is reported. The highest yield of α,ω-diol was achieved for the production of 1,12-dodecanediol. In the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) cofactor regeneration system, 5 g/L of 1,12-dodecanediol was synthesized in 24 h reaction from the commercial ω-hydroxy dodecanoic acid. Finally, 1.4 g/L 1,12-dodecanediol was produced in a consecutive approach from dodecanoic acids. The results of this study demonstrated the scope of the potential development of bioprocesses to substitute the petroleum-based products in the polymer industry.