Abstract: A steroid comprising a 17-spirolactone or corresponding open lactone structure is obtained by carbonylation of a 17-alkenyl or 17-alkynyl substrate. A 17-alkenyl intermediate may be prepared by semi-hydrogenation of a 17-alkynyl group. Multiple reaction schemes are disclosed for preparation of a 3-keto-9,11-epoxy-17-spirolactone steroid such as eplerenone. Novel intermediates are also disclosed, as well as steps for forming such novel intermediates, or converting them to further intermediates or products, by semi-hydrogenation, carbonylation, 6,7-dehydrogenation, furylation or other transformations or combinations thereof.

Abstract: A steroid comprising a 17-spirolactone or corresponding open lactone structure is obtained by carbonylation of a 17-alkenyl or 17-alkynyl substrate. A 17-alkenyl intermediate may be prepared by semi-hydrogenation of a 17-alkynyl group. Multiple reaction schemes are disclosed for preparation of a 3-keto-9,11-epoxy-17-spirolactone steroid such as eplerenone. Novel intermediates are also disclosed, as well as steps for forming such novel intermediates, or converting them to further intermediates or products, by semi-hydrogenation, carbonylation, 6,7-dehydrogenation, furylation or other transformations or combinations thereof.

Abstract: Among its several embodiments, the present invention provides an improved process for the preparation of tetrahydrobenzothiepine-1,1-dioxide compounds; the provision of a process for preparing a diastereomeric mixture of tetrahydrobenzothiepine-1,1-dioxide compounds from a single diastereomer of such compounds; the provision of a process for the preparation of 3-bromo-2-substituted propionaldehyde compounds; and the provision of a process for the preparation of 3-thio-2-substituted propionaldehyde compounds.