Facile lipase catalysed syntheses of (S)-(+)-4-hydroxy-β-ionone and (S)-(+)-4-hydroxy-β-damascone: chiral flavorants and synthons

Enantioselective syntheses of (S)-(+)-4-hydroxy-β-ionone and (S)-(+)-4-hydroxy-β-damascone have been achieved through pig pancreatic lipase catalysed trans-esterification. These molecules find utility as constituent in fruit-type fragrance and flavor formulations and as chiral synthons in asymmetric synthesis of bioactive terpenoids.