Asymmetric epoxidation of alkenes and benzylic hydroxylation with P450tol monooxygenase from Rhodococcus coprophilus TC-2.

P450tol monooxygenase was discovered as a unique and highly enantioselective enzyme for asymmetric epoxidation of some terminal alkenes containing electron-withdrawing groups and benzylic hydroxylation of several ethylbenzenes giving the corresponding useful and valuable products, such as (R)-2- and 3-substituted styrene oxides, (S)-4-substituted styrene oxides, and (S)-benzylic alcohols, in high ee.