Lipases as Useful Tools for the Stereo- and Regioselective Protection and Deprotection of Carbohydrates

Summary.  Stereo- and regioselective acylation and deacylation of carbohydrates can be achieved using lipases as biocatalysts. These enzymes are extremely versatile, quite stable in aqueous and organic solvents, easily available, and easy to handle. Recently, they have become the object of site directed mutagenesis which suggests that they soon could be ‘built ad hoc’ for specific necessities. Received September 11, 2001. Accepted November 19, 2001