Preparation of the gemini detergent-lipase complexes and their high enzymatic activities in the transesterifications in homogeneous organic solvents

Lipase and newly synthesized gemini-type detergent were mixed in an aqueous phosphate buffer solution and lyophilized. Due to complex formation between the substances it was possible to dissolve or at least finely disperse these preparations in organic media. The lipase-detergent complexes were used to catalyse the irreversible transesterfication of 6-methyl-5-hepten-2-ol (sulcatol) or 2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolane-4-methanol (solketal) with vinyl or isopropenyl carboxylate in organic solvents. The complexes were considerably more active than enzyme powder or the complexes prepared with conventional synthesized detergents in organic media. © Rapid Science Ltd. 1998