Methyl Ethyl Ketone → Androst-4,7-diene-3,17-dione

Participants

Reaction Steps

A solution of androst-5,7-diene-3β,17β-diol (2.9 g, 10 mmol) in 150 ml toluene is azeotropically dried for one hour. Butanone (15 ml) is added followed by aluminum isopropoxide (1.7 g, 8 mmol) and the mixture is heated at reflux for 2.5 hours. The solution is then concentrated to a volume of 25 ml, diluted with trichloromethane, and washed with 5% hydrochloric acid, aqueous sodium bicarbonate, and brine. Concentration and chromatography affords androst-4,7-diene-3,17-dione.

Provenance & Evidence