Enzymatic resolution of racemic ibuprofen by lipase-catalyzed esterification reaction: Effects of water content and solid supports

Abstract

For the production of optically pure S-(+)-ibuprofen, enzymatic esterification of racemic ibuprofen was investigated using Candida cylindracea lipase. It was found that the reaction rates and yields could be enhanced by adding solid supports to the reaction medium. The effects of the amount of water added and the type and amount of support used were also examined.