An in vitro–in vivo sequential cascade for the synthesis of iminosugars from aldoses

Here, we report a chemoenzymatic approach for the preparation of a small panel of biologically important iminosugars from readily available aldoses. Our approach involves an in vitro transaminase-mediated amination of aldoses in combination with an in vivo selective oxidation of the chemically protected transaminase products, using Gluconobacter oxydans DSM 2003 whole cells. Chemically catalysed deprotection and reduction steps afford a selection of valuable iminocyclitols. Science Foundation Ireland Citation tool on publisher's site lists issue number as 11 but DOI and all other details indicate issue 13 is the correct citation.