Organic-inorganic nanocrystal reductase to promote green asymmetric synthesis.

An acetophenone reductase from Geotrichum candidum ( Gc APRD) was immobilized by the organic-inorganic nanocrystal method. The Gc APRD nanocrystal presented improved stability and recyclability compared with those of the free Gc APRD. Moreover, the Gc APRD nanocrystal reduced broad kinds of ketones with excellent enantioselectivities to produce beneficial chiral alcohols such as ( S )-1-(3',4'-dichlorophenyl)ethanol with >99% yield and >99% ee. The robust and versatile properties of the Gc APRD nanocrystal demonstrated an approach to promote green asymmetric synthesis and sustainable chemistry.