Biotransformation with whole microbial systems in a continuous flow reactor: resolution of (RS)-flurbiprofen using Aspergillus oryzae by direct esterification with ethanol in organic solvent

Cell-bound lipases of dry mycelium of Aspergillus oryzae were used in organic solvent for the resolution of racemic flurbiprofen by direct esterification with ethanol in a flow-chemistry reactor. Under flow conditions a significant reduction of the reaction time and an increase of the enantioselectivity were achieved compared to the batch mode. Moreover, the process was implemented by adding an in-line purification step integrated with the racemization of the unreacted flurbiprofen directly into a polymer-supported resin.