ω-Transaminases for the synthesis of non-racemic α-chiral primary amines

Optically pure amines are highly valuable products or key intermediates for a vast number of bioactive compounds; however, efficient methods for their preparation are rare. ω-Transaminases (TAs) can be applied either for the kinetic resolution of racemic amines or for the asymmetric synthesis of amines from the corresponding ketones. The latter process is more advantageous because it leads to 100% product, and is therefore a major focus of this review. This review summarizes various methodologies for transamination reactions, and provides an overview of ω-TAs that have the potential to be used for the preparation of a broad spectrum of α-chiral amines. Recent methodological developments as well as some recently identified novel ω-TAs warrant an update on this topic.