A Novel Baker’s Yeast-Mediated Microwave-Induced Reduction of Racemic 3-Keto-2-Azetidinones: Facile Entry to Optically Active Hydroxy β-Lactam Derivatives

Objective: Microwave technology, together with enzymatic catalysis, is a nature-friendly chemical synthesis method with low wastage of solvent and a good yield of the products. Methods: Enzymes from various microorganisms can be used in the biochemical processes of a wide range of compounds assisted by microwave irradiation. Results: In this work, the microwave-induced reaction of α-keto β-lactams by Baker's yeast in organic solvent was conducted to afford optically active cis and trans-α-hydroxy-β-lactams for the first time. Conclusion: These hydroxy compounds are the precursors of numerous natural products of medicinal significance.