Hydroxy functionalization of non-activated C-H and C=C bonds: new perspectives for the synthesis of alcohols through biocatalytic processes.

New perspectives through enzymes: Recent breakthroughs have been achieved in the selective hydroxy functionalization of non-activated C-H and C=C bonds. Enzymes turned out to be suitable catalysts for the ω-hydroxylation of (substituted) alkanes and regioselective hydroxylation of aromatic hydrocarbons with atmospheric oxygen as the oxidant, and the asymmetric addition of water to non-activated alkenes.