Biomimetic synthesis of hydroxytyrosol from conversion of tyrosol by mimicking tyrosine hydroxylase.

Hydroxytyrosol, one of the most powerful natural antioxidants, exhibits certificated benefits for human health. In this study, a biomimetic approach to synthesize hydroxytyrosol from the hydroxylation of tyrosol was established. EDTA-Fe coordination complex served as an active center to simulate tyrosine hydroxylase. HO and ascorbic acid were used as oxygen donor and hydrogen donor, respectively. Hydroxy radical and singlet oxygen contributed to active species. The biomimetic system displayed analogous component, structure, and activity with TyrH. Hydroxytyrosol titer of 21.59 mM, and productivity of 9985.92 mg·L·h was achieved with 100 mM tyrosol as substrate. The proposed approach provided efficient and convenient route to quickly produce high amount of hydroxytyrosol.