PRODUCTION OF NATURAL FLAVORS BY LACCASE CATALYSIS

摘要

A method of producing nootkatone by laccase catalyzed oxidation of valencene. Valencene and a composition having laccase activity are reacte d in the presence of an oxygen source, at a valencene concentration greater th an 0.1 %, to form valencene hydroperoxide. Optionally, a mediator and/or a solvent at a concentration that maintains lactase activity may also be included. The valencene hydroperoxide is degraded to form nootkatone, and nootkato ne is then recovered. The method produces nootkatone in commercially viable yields.