The three Science of Synthesis volumes on "Biocatalysis in Organic Synthesis" are designed to present the new possibilities offered by modern biocatalysis to the nonspecialist academic and industrial readership who are involved in practical organic synthesis. The goal of the reference work is to help start a new wave of enthusiasm for biocatalysis in the broader community and to give an overview of the field. As is the case with all of the Science of Synthesis volumes, "Biocatalysis in Organic Synthesis" offers critical reviews of organic transformations by experts, including typical or general experimental procedures. The content organization of the three volumes is based on the type of reaction performed under biocatalysis.
Volume 3 begins by describing oxidation. A chapter on dihydroxylation is followed by reviews of alkane oxidation. Oxidations of alcohols, carbonyl compounds, and heteroatoms are also covered, as are halogenations. The use of biocatalysts in total synthesis, cascade reactions, and the development of large-scale processes are considered. Finally, emerging trends are outlined.