Enzyme-Catalyzed Dynamic Kinetic Resolution of 2-Formylbenzoic Acids for the Asymmetric Synthesis of Phthalidyl Esters and Related Prodrugs

An enzyme-catalyzed dynamic kinetic resolution strategy was applied for the asymmetric synthesis of phthalidyl esters in high yields (up to 95%) and enantiomeric purities (up to 99% ee) through a direct one-pot procedure. Preparation of phthalidyl ester prodrugs and a scale-up reaction demonstrated the potential of this method for practical applications.