Biotransformation of Cycloalkanediones by Caragana chamlagu

The biotransformation of alkylcycloalkanediones using suspension plant cultured-cells of Caragana chamlagu gave oxo carboxylic acids by oxidative cleavage. 5,6Dioxoheptanoic acid was obtained in high yield (95%) in a short time (7 h) from 2-methyl-1,3-cyclohexanedione. However, 1,2- and 1,4-cycloalkanediones were reduced stereoselectively and trans-1,2-cyclohexanediol and trans-1,4-cyclohexanediol were obtained, respectively. The mechanism of the oxidative cleavage of alkylcycloalkanediones is also discussed.