Steroids and Steroidases. XI. Synthetic Approaches to C-17 Bis(2-hydroxyethyl)-amino Compounds as Potential Precursors of 17-Hydroxyandrostane Nitrogen Mustards

Abstract

The synthesis of some potential nitrogen mustard precursor 17α-bis(2-hydroxyethyl)aminomethyl androst-17β-ol derivatives has been achieved by two routes. During the investigation, unequivocal proof was obtained that addition of cyanide to 17-keto steroids gives predominantly 17β-hydroxy-17α-cyano epimers.