Lecithin/propanol-based microemulsions used as media for a cholesterol oxidase-catalyzed reaction

Reverse micelles, Winsor III and IV systems were examined as reaction media for the enzymatic conversion of cholesterol to cholestenone by cholesterol oxidase at 298.2 K. The micelles and the microemulsions, stabilized by soybean lecithin and ethanol or 1-propanol as cosolvent, were characterized with respect to phase behavior and distribution of 1-propanol between the phases of the Winsor III systems. The used oils were dodecane, tetradecane, and hexadecane. The Winsor IV systems and the surfactant-rich phase in the Winsor III systems exhibit bicontinuous structures. The reaction yield for the enzymatic conversion performed in a Winsor IV system was much higher than in a Winsor III system or in reverse micelles.