Abstract: A biocatalytic process to obtain optically enriched precursors of trans-4-(4-fluorophenyl)-3-hydroxymethylpiperidines, based on the enzymatic resolution of racemic derivatives of general formula III (where R3 is preferably phenyl or benzyl) using cyclic anhydrides or the Meldrum's acid (2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxane-4,6-dione) as acylating agents of the hydroxyl group. Depending on the enzyme and the chosen reaction conditions, either of the two enantiomers may be obtained with high enantiomeric purity. These compounds are important intermediates in the synthesis of the paroxetine anti-depressive agent.

Abstract: A biocatalytic process to obtain optically enriched derivatives of trans-4-(4-fluorophenyl)-3-hydroxymethylpiperidines, based on the enzymatic resolution of racemic precursors of formula III (where R3 is preferably phenyl or benzyl) by acylation of the hydroxyl group. Depending on the enzyme and the reaction conditions, either of the two enantiomers may be obtained with high enantiomeric purity. These compounds are important intermediates in the synthesis of the paroxetine anti-depressive agent.