Recent applications of mechanochemistry and mechanoenzymology for the enantioselective and green synthesis of valuable small chiral molecules

Small chiral molecules are of great value not only because of their recurrent unique chemical reactivity and ready application in the pharmaceutical and food industries, but also because they constitute building blocks for the synthesis of more complex molecules with relevant biological activity. On the other hand, the development of chemical processes that are both highly efficient and environmentally friendly is one of the most rapidly growing areas of research in recent years, particularly when the goal pertains the preparation of relevant molecules and useful chemical materials. This mini review highlights illustrative examples of the application of mechanosynthesis and mechanoenzymology in the development of highly efficient chemical processes involving minimum use of solvents, affording “green” strategies for the stereoselective synthesis of valuable small chiral molecules.