We have developed a thermally driven domino reaction for the synthesis of (S)-α- arylpropionates (profens) using a thermostable esterase from Sulfolobus tokodaii strain 7. Stereoselectivity was improved considerably by engineering of the active site. Stereoselective decarboxylation at the active site of an esterase is a new reaction for the synthesis of optically active carboxylic acids.
