Biocatalysis in neoteric ionic systems

Enzymes are natural catalysts designed to operate with the best efficiency and selectivity. Their benefits to the industry have boosted research in new improved biocatalysts, pathways for improving their availability and, more importantly, reaction medium engineering in search of synergies that contribute to expanding the scope of biotransformations. This review focusses on the advantages that the neoteric ionic media ionic liquids (ILs) and deep eutectic solvents (DESs) provide to biocatalysis, emphasising the tailored biocatalytic performance, enhanced stabilisation, process simplification and overall superior sustainability. Different biocatalytic strategies in neat or aqueous mixtures of ILs or DESs are presented using either whole-cell or free enzyme biocatalysis, highlighting the synergies that provide improved outcomes with respect to conventional media.