Biotransformation of (1R)-(+)- and (1S)-(−)-camphor by the larvae of common cutworm (Spodoptera litura)

Biotransformation of (1R)-(+)- and (1S)-(−)-camphor in Spodoptera litura larvae has been investigated. (+)- and (−)-Camphor was hydroxylated, regio-selective transformation, (+)-camphor to (1R,5S)-(+)-5-endo-hydroxycamphor, (1R,5R)-(+)-5-exo-hydroxycamphor and (1R,7R)-(+)-8-hydroxycamphor. Similarly, (−)-camphor was transformed to (1S,5R)-(−)-5-endo-hydroxycamphor, (1S,5S)-(−)-5-exo-hydroxycamphor and (1S,7S)-(−)-8-hydroxycamphor. C-8 position of (+)- and (−)-camphor being hydroxylated to a high degree of efficiency compared with any other biocatalysts. Intestinal bacteria from the frass of larvae did not participate in the metabolism of (+)- and (−)-camphor.