Synthesis of the optically active bicyclo[4.3.0]nonane derivative, regarded as the CD ring moiety of 12-oxygenated steroids

Pinacol Coupling Strategy for the Construction of the Bicyclo[6.4.1]tridecane Framework of Schiglautone A

The synthesis of the tricyclic carbon framework of schiglautone A (1) is reported herein. The generation of the bicyclo[6.4.1]tridecane 19 was accomplished via a SmI₂-mediated pinacol coupling of dialdehyde 18. The side chain in 18 was introduced using a selective 1,4-addition. A further key step of the synthesis was the homologation of a Wieland-Miescher ketone derivative to establish the 7-membered ring.

Spiro-bicyclo[2.2.2]octane derivatives as paclitaxel mimetics. Synthesis and toxicity evaluation in breast cancer cell lines

Paclitaxel is one of the most important anti-cancer agents introduced during the last 20 years. However, the use of paclitaxel is limited by undesirable side effects as well as the development of drug resistance. Here, we report a synthetic strategy towards spiro-bicyclo[2.2.2]octane derivatives, which includes double Michael addition and ring-closing metathesis as key synthetic steps. This strategy was used to synthesize a series of spiro-bicyclic compounds designed to be paclitaxel mimetics, which were evaluated in human breast-derived cell lines. One of these paclitaxel mimetics showed toxicity, although at higher concentrations than paclitaxel itself. In addition, two other spiro-bicyclic compounds, lacking the paclitaxel side chain, showed toxicity.

A Rapid and Stereoselective Route to the trans-Hydrindane Ring System

A short and stereoselective route to the trans-hydrindane derivative, a potential building block for the synthesis of steroidal and related molecules, was achieved by the operation of indium, tin, and ruthenium based reagents, starting from a tetrabromo norbornyl derivative.