Ester synthesis by the lipase from Pseudomonas fragi 22.39 B.

Abstract

Ester synthesis by the purified lipase from Pseudomonas fragi 22.39 B was investigated. The lipase could synthesize esters from oleic acid and primary or secondary alcohols, but it did not react with tertiary alcohols. Also, the enzyme could use the fatty acids with straight carbon chains as substrates. The activity was enhanced by increasing the carbon number of the fatty acid, but this is not the case for alcohol. The lipase synthesized glycerides from glycerol and oleic acid. 1(3)-Monoolein and 1, 3-diolein were the main products and triolein was minor. Synthesis of monoester such as butyl oleate was scarcely affected by the water content in the reaction mixture, while that of glyceride of oleic acid was much affected.