Contributions on Kinetic Resolution by Lipases on the Development of Organic Synthesis in Brazil

In recent decades the need for new chiral compounds with high enantiomeric excesses has been rapidly emerging. Among the various methods used to achieve chiral compounds, one can highlight the enzymatic kinetic resolution of racemic esters, alcohols and amines and as the most versatile enzymatic methodology used in organic routes. Enzymes are used in biocatalytic routes to obtain enriched and enantiomerically pure compounds. The most remarkable biocatalysts for these processes are lipases, which have the capability of being used in organic media. Thus, the main purpose of this article was to present a review about studies conducted in Brazil involving the kinetic resolution of racemic compounds using lipases, also including unusual substrates containing heteroatoms, such as boron, silicon, selenium, tellurium and sulfur.