Chemical applications of Class B flavoprotein monooxygenases

Biocatalysis using flavoprotein monooxygenases is coming of age, with intense research and development being carried out within the last decade. The reason behind their popularity is the vast array of reactions which they can catalyze, including Baeyer–Villiger oxidation, sulfoxidation, and epoxidation reactions. Members of Class B flavoprotein monooxygenases, especially Baeyer–Villiger enzymes, are highly selective in their chemo-, regio-, and enantio-selective oxygenation reactions, and are useful in the synthesis of high-value chemicals. Their catalysis products find wide applications in various fields, including fine chemical, cosmetic, as well as pharmaceutical industries. Moreover, in the era of a drive for more environmentally friendly reactions with the use of less toxic reagents and ambient temperatures, these flavoproteins are well suited to the principles of green chemistry. This mini review provides an overview of some stereoselective reactions carried out by Class B flavoprotein monooxygenases and the efforts made to make these biocatalysts suitable for industrial applications.