Optimization fatty-ester synthesis

Ganske F, Bomscheuer UT (2005) Optimization of lipase-catalyzed glucose fatty acid ester synthesis in a two-phase system containing ionic liquids and t-BuOH. J Mol Catal B Enzym 36 40 2... 

The fatty esters of polyethers are known to be good surfactants, and many commercial products are available in the market place. Most people use chemical methods to achieve the required synthesis. Enzymatic methods can also be used however, the reaction needs to be optimized. An example is the lipase-catalyzed synthesis of fatty acid diester of poly(ethylene glycol) EG). 

Degn, R, and W. Zimmermann. 2001. Optimization of Carbohydrate Fatty Acid Ester Synthesis in Organic Media by a Lipase from Candida Antarctica Biotechnology and Bioengineering 74 (6) 483-491. 

Independently of whether chemical or enzymatic methods are used for synthesis, the STAG produced have to be analysed carefully. Besides the total fatty acid composition and the content of partial glycerol esters and free fatty acids, a regiospecific analysis of the fatty acid distribution is of utmost importance. In addition, sophisticated analytical methods are required to optimize a specific reaction and to measure changes in the sTAG composition during synthesis. 

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