ω-Transaminases (EC 2.6.1.X)  catalyses the conversion of a wide range of ketones, ketone acids or even aldehydes to amines or amino acids in water under amibient conditions (see Reaction Scheme and Examples). These enzymes are also able to catalyze the reversible deamination. ω-Transaminases are pyridoxal-5'-phosphate (PLP) dependent. However, for most industrial applications there is no need to add external cofactors since PLP is usually tightly bound to the enzymes (see References).

Reaction Scheme and Examples:

Selected References:

1. Hwang, B.-Y.; Kim, B.-G. “High-throughput screening method for the identification of active and enantioselective ω-transaminases”, Enzyme and Microbial Technology, 2004, 34, 429-436.

2. Helaine, V.; Rossi, J.; Gefflaut, T.; Alaux, S.; Bolte, J.  “Synthesis of 4,4-disubstituted L-glutamic acids by  enzymatic   transamination”, Advanced Synthesis & Catalysis, 2001,  343,  692-697. 

3. Matcham, G.; Bhatia, M.; Lang, W.; Lewis, C.; Nelson, R.; Wang, A.; Wu, W. “Enzyme and reaction engineering in biocatalysis: Synthesis of (S)-methoxyisopropylamine”, Chimia, 1999, 53, 584-589.