| abstract |
A method of producing nootkatone by laccase catalyzed oxidationnof valencene. Valencene and a composition having laccase activity are reactednin the presence of an oxygen source, at a valencene concentration greater thann0.1%, to form valencene hydroperoxide. Optionally, a mediator and/or ansolvent at a concentration that maintains laccase activity may also be included.nThe valencene hydroperoxide is degraded to form nootkatone, and nootkatonenis then recovered. The method produces nootkatone in commercially viablenyields. |