First simple and mild synthesis of 2-alkylbenzimidazoles involving a supported enzymatic catalyst

A new enzymatic synthesis is described for 2-alkyl-benzimidazoles a technologically important class of compounds. It is a onestep synthesis which involves a supported enzyme (Lipozyme (R)) and is carried out in very mild conditions in hydrocarbon solvents to give 2-alkyl-benzimidazoles in good yields, starting from the free acids. Preliminary results indicate that the reaction has a potential to produce new molecules using sensitive or conjugated acids.