Highly Efficient Nucleophilic Addition of Alkyl Grignard Reagents to 17-Ketosteroids in the Presence of Cerium(III)Chloride: Synthesis of 17α-Propyl-17β-Hydroxy-4-Androsten-3-one, An Androgen Receptor Antagonist

Article abstract of DOI:10.1016/0040-4039(94)88011-5

The addition of alkyl Grignard reagents to sterically hindered 17-ketosteroids was significantly enhanced by anhydrous cerium(III) chloride with notable suppression of abnormal reactions, while the addition products were obtained in good to excellent yields and high stereoselectivity.