Kinetic resolution of propranolol by a lipase-catalyzed N-acetylation

An enzymatic method for the direct resolution of propranolol is described. Candida cylindracea lipase enantioselectively catalyzed N-acetylation of S-propranolol with isopropenyl acetate in isopropyl ether. The ee values of the two enantiomers of N-acetylpropranolol were determined by an HPLC equipped with a chiral column. The effects of organic solvent nature and substrate concentration on enantioselectivity were also studied.