Alternative synthesis of huperzine A with keto-reductases

A consortium comprising Shasun, Prozomix and CatScI has been established as part of the Innovate UK’s IB Catalyst. The key goal of the project is to develop a novel IB route to a nutraceutical that is currently manufactured through traditional chemical manufacturing techniques or isolated from scarce natural resources. The new technology has the potential to significantly reduce manufacturing costs whilst concomitantly allowing an increased output of the nutraceutical with a more robust supply chain. Additionally, this will have the added benefits of generating a more sustainable process as it will be more energy efficient and less reliant on hydrocarbon and precious metal based technologies. A successful project will allow the consortium to compete with manufacture in low-cost economies and help ensure that production of this critical nutraceutical continues in the United Kingdom.