Biocatalytic enantioselective synthesis of cenobamate, an antiepileptic drug

A green and efficient process for the synthesis of cenobamate has been accomplished in 70% yield and >99% ee through the bio‐reduction of β ‐ketotetrazole using Daucus carota whole plant cells. The corresponding β ‐hydroxytetrazole was isolated in 60% yield and >98% ee. This is the first report on the biocatalytic reduction of β ‐ketotetrazole using plant enzymes derived from D. carota root cells with excellent enantioselectivity.