Abstract

The present study describes the development of an efficient and facile synthesis of β-aminoketones (3a-k) via the nucleophilic addition of acetophenone to imines in presence of Baker’s yeast (BY) as bio-catalyst. The present method is very facile and works under mild and eco-friendly environment g by using ethyl alcohol (C2H5OH) as green solvent and BY as biocatalyst. The reaction follows the simple work up which gives the products in good to excellent yields. Thus, it is presumed that this newly developed protocol will open a new gateway for the chemist in the area of organic synthesis particularly for the preparation of β-aminoketones via the nucleophilic addition of acetophenone to imines in facile and green environmentally conditions.