Biocatalytic synthesis of a novel atorvastatin catechol derivative as an anti-hyperlipidemic drug candidate using bacterial tyrosinase

Abstract

Tyrosinase hydroxylates 4-hydroxy atorvastatin to produce 3,4-dihydroxy atorvastatin, a potent HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor. The sequential P450–tyrosinase biotransformation of atorvastatin provides a cost-effective and sustainable route for producing active statin metabolites having catechol structures. This enzymatic synthesis of drug derivatives can greatly advance biocatalytic applications and drug development in pharmaceuticals.