Hydrogen-driven, ATP-dependent biocatalytic reduction of carboxylic acids under non-explosive conditions

Abstract

The reduction of carboxylic acids to alcohols is a key chemical transformation. We present a whole-cell biocatalyst employing carboxylic acid reductases and H₂ for cofactor regeneration. H₂ as a reductant ensures high atom and mass efficiency, enabling a more sustainable route to alcohols. Notably, we showcase that the reaction proceeds under O₂-limited conditions, demonstrating potential for safer bioprocesses.