Abstract: This invention provides peptidomimetics which bind to T4 or CD4 cell receptors and are useful in inhibiting viral infectivity by viruses which bind to T4 cell receptors. More specifically, peptidomimetics of this invention can alleviate symptoms of AIDS by inhibiting binding of HIV, the virus associated with AIDS, to receptor sites in human cells susceptible to HIV infection. These peptidomimetics, in particular, inhibit binding of HIV to cells of brain membrane and the immune system. They also display substantially longer half-lives in vivo than peptide T. The compounds of this invention which bind to T4 or CD4 receptors and thereby inhibit binding of HIV, alone or in combination with one another, can be used to alleviate AIDS symptoms and ameliorate symptoms of HIV infection, especially neuronal dementias and Kaposi's sarcoma. The compounds of this invention, alone or in combination, can further be used to prevent development of AIDS in persons who might become exposed to HIV.

Abstract: The present invention provides a process for the preparation of pesticidal fluoroolefin compounds having the structural formula I ##STR1## The present invention also provides intermediate compounds which are utilized in the process of this invention.

Abstract: The invention relates to the use of .alpha.-hydroxyketoalkyl derivatives as light protection filters for cosmetic or pharmaceutical products, the .alpha.-hydroxyketoalkyl group being linked, if appropriate via a spacer, to a chromophoric group which has an absorption maximum in a wavelength range of between 280 and 400 nm and has a conjugated .pi.-electron system of at least 8 .pi.-electrons, and to new .alpha.-hydroxyalkyl derivatives, processes for their preparation and pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations comprising these derivatives as light protection substances.

Abstract: The present invention provides a chemically modified form of hemoglobin that is stabilized and can efficiently bind and release oxygen. In addition the chemically modified hemoglobin may be polymerized to increase its molecular weight and increase its stability so that it will have a longer half life in the circulatory system and may be used as a stable oxygen transport mediator which is useful as the basis of a blood substitute.

Abstract: An improved process for the preparation of Nabumetone, which comprises the following steps:a) condensation between 6-methoxy-naphthaldehyde I and t-butyl acetoacetate II, to give 3-t-butoxycarbonyl-4-(6'-methoxy-2'-naphthyl)-but-3-en-2-one III as an E/Z mixture;b) hydrogenation of III in the presence of a palladium catalyst, to give 3-t-butoxycarbonyl-4-(6'-methoxy-2-naphthyl)-butan-2-one IV;c) cleavage of the t-butyl ester by acid catalysis; andd) recrystallization of the crude with methanol.

Abstract: The present invention provides dihalopropene compounds of the general formula: ##STR1## wherein R.sub.1 is C.sub.1 -C.sub.10 alkyl or the like; L is C(.dbd.O)NH or the like; R.sub.2, R.sub.3 and R.sub.4 are independently halogen or the like; R.sub.5, R.sub.6 and R.sub.7 are independently hydrogen or the like; m is an integer of 0 to 4; n is an integer of 0 to 2; X is chlorine or the like; Y is oxygen or the like; and Z is oxygen or the like, which have excellent insecticidal activity so that they are satisfactorily effective for the control of noxious insects.

Abstract: Certain novel substituted (5,6)-dihydroanthracenyl compounds of the general formula ##STR1## wherein A, n, p, R.sub.1, R.sub.2, R.sub.3, R.sub.4, R.sub.5, R.sub.6, R.sub.7 and R.sub.8 are as defined in the specification exhibit retinoid-like properties and are particularly useful in the prevention of post-surgical adhesions.

Abstract: Molecular complex compounds comprising a mono-, bis- or trisacylphosphine oxide compound with an .alpha.-hydroxy ketone compound are suitable as photoinitiators for the photopolymerization of free-radically polymerizable compounds.

Abstract: Compounds with fungicidal and insecticidal properties having formula I ##STR1## wherein A is N or CH; V is O or NH; m and n are integers 0 and 1 provided that m+n is 1;X is independently selected from hydrogen, halo, (C.sub.1 -C.sub.4)alkyl, and (C.sub.1 -C.sub.4) alkoxy;R is independently selected from, (C.sub.1 -C.sub.12)alkyl, halo(C.sub.1 -C.sub.12)alkyl, (C.sub.2 -C.sub.8) alkenyl, (C.sub.2 -C.sub.8)alkynyl, (C.sub.1 -C.sub.12)alkoxy(C.sub.1 -C.sub.12)alkyl, (C.sub.3 -C.sub.7) cycloalkyl, (C.sub.3 -C.sub.7)cycloalkyl(C.sub.1 -C.sub.4)alkyl, aryl, aralkyl, and heterocyclic moieties;R is independently selected from (C.sub.1 -C.sub.12)alkyl, halo(C.sub.1 -C.sub.12)alkyl, (C.sub.2 -C.sub.8) alkenyl, (C.sub.2 -C.sub.8)alkynyl, (C.sub.1 -C.sub.12)alkoxy(C.sub.1 -C.sub.12)alkyl, (C.sub.3 -C.sub.7) cycloalkyl, (C.sub.3 -C.sub.7)cycloalkyl(C.sub.1 -C.sub.4)alkyl, aryl, aralkyl, and heterocyclic;R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 are independently selected from hydrogen, (C.sub.1 -C.sub.6)alkyl, halo(C.sub.1 -C.sub.

Abstract: This invention relates to derivatives of 4,4-(disubstituted)cyclohexan-1-ones and related compounds which are useful for treating allergic and inflammatory diseases.

Abstract: A process and intermediates for preparing .alpha.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to substituted bicycloheptanedion e derivatives represented by a general formula ?I!; ##STR1## wherein R represents C.sub.1 -C.sub.4 alkyl, R.sup.1 represents hydrogen, C.sub.1 -C.sub.10 alkyl, C.sub.2 -C.sub.4 alkenyl, C.sub.2 -C.sub.4 alkynyl, aralkyl, C.sub.2 -C.sub.4 haloalkynyl, C.sub.1 -C.sub.4 alkoxy C.sub.1 -C.sub.4 alkyl, C.sub.1 -C.sub.4 haloalkyl, C.sub.2 -C.sub.4 haloalkenyl, etc. and R.sup.2 represents optionally substituted phenyl or optionally substituted pyridyl, the salts thereof and herbicides comprising the same as the active ingredient.

Abstract: Compounds of formula I, ##STR1## wherein the substituents R.sub.1 -R.sub.4 and a have the given meanings and show an activity against inflammatory conditions.

Abstract: The present invention provides new compounds, 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-PGFs, and vassopressors containing them, which raise blood pressure without substantial ephemeral depression of blood pressure, trachea or enteron contraction effect inherent in usual PGFs.

Abstract: A method of generating reactive species which includes exposing a photoreactor composition to radiation, in which the photoreactor composition comprises a wavelength-specific sensitizer associated with a reactive species-generating photoinitiator. Also described are methods of polymerizing unsaturated monomers and curing an unsaturated oligomer/monomer mixture.

Abstract: Diphenylheteroalkyl derivatives of the formula I ##STR1## where A and R.sup.1 -R.sup.6 have the meanings specified in the description, and the preparation thereof are described.The substances are suitable for controlling diseases and as cosmetic agents.

Abstract: Novel 4-oxoquinoline-3-carboxylic acid compounds of the formula: ##STR1## wherein R.sup.1 is cyclopropyl which may have 1 to 3 substituents of alkyl and halogen; phenyl which may be substituted by 1 to 3 substituents of alkoxy, halogen and OH; alkyl which may be substituted by halogen, alkanoyloxy or OH; alkenyl; or thienyl, R.sup.2 is 5- to 9-membered saturated or unsaturated heterocyclic ring which may be sustituted, R.sup.3 is alkyl, R is H or alkyl, and X is halogen, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, said compounds having excellent antimicrobial activity and hence being useful as an antimicrobial agent, and a pharmaceutical composition containing said compound as an active ingredient.

Abstract: New retinoid compounds, as chalcone retinoids and compositions thereof, are provided which exhibit therapeutic and/or biological activity on cancer or precancer cells, as well as to methods of use of same.

Abstract: Inks, particularly inks for ink jet printing, contain at least one compound of the formula I ##STR1## as a stabilizer. The symbols R.sub.1, R.sub.2, R.sub.3, R.sub.4, R.sub.3 ' and R.sub.4 ' are as defined in claim 1. The compounds are in part novel and are suitable for use as light stabilizers for organic materials.

Abstract: A process for removing .beta.-hydroxy groups from .beta.-hydroxy-containing compounds is disclosed. The process involves the use of a retro-aldol-promoting reagent selected from the group of trimethylamine-N-oxide, triethylamine-N-oxide, trimethylamine-N-oxide-hydrate, and trimethylamine-hydrate and requires dissolution of the substrate in an aprotic solvent and reaction under elevated temperatures. The process is broadly applicable to a variety of substrates including complex cyclic peptides, linear peptides, and non-peptides.

Abstract: Specific optically active 4- hydroxy-2-cyclopentenone derivatives and mixtures thereof having the formula (I): ##STR1## and an anticancer-agent and a bone formation accelerator containing the same as effective active ingredients.

Abstract: Disclosed is the use of cloprostenol and fluprostenol analogues for the treatment of glaucoma and ocular hypertension. Also disclosed are ophthalmic compositions comprising said compounds.

Abstract: Abstract of the Disclosure: Diphenylheteroalkyl derivatives of the formula I ##STR1## where A and R.sup.1 -R.sup.6 have the meanings specified in the description, and the preparation thereof are described.The substances are suitable for controlling diseases and as cosmetic agents.

Abstract: There is provided a method for safening herbicides in cereal crop plants by using 5-aryloxy-1,2 -(disubstituted)benzene compounds of formula I ##STR1## Further provided are compositions comprising a 5-aryloxy-1,2-(disubstituted)benzene compound of formula I.

Abstract: The present invention provides new compounds, 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-PGFs, and vassopressors containing them, which raise blood pressure without substantial ephemeral depression of blood pressure, trachea or enteron contraction effect inherent in usual PGFs.

Abstract: .beta.-Substituted cinnamic acid derivatives of the formula 1, ##STR1## where R.sup.1 is alkyl, chlorine or bromine, --X-- is --O--, --S--, ##STR2## m is 0 or 1, --Y is --OR.sup.4, --O--N.dbd.CR.sup.5 R.sup.6, --NR.sup.7 R.sup.8, --N(OR.sup.9)R.sup.10 or --SR.sup.11, where the above-mentioned substituents R.sup.2 to R.sup.11 are alkyl, and R.sup.2, and R.sup.3 and R.sup.5 to R.sup.11 can also be hydrogen,Z is halogen, nitro, cyano, alkyl, cycloalkyl, aralkyl, aryloxyalkyl, arylthioalkyl, hetarylalkyl, hetaryloxyalkyl, hetarylthioalkyl, alkenyl, aralkenyl, aryloxyalkenyl, arylthioalkenyl, hetarylalkenyl, hetaryloxyalkenyl, hetarylthioalkenyl, alkynyl, arylalkynyl, hetarylalkynyl, aryl, hetaryl, arylazo, acylamino, --OR.sup.12, --SR.sup.13, --SOR.sup.14, --SO.sub.2 R.sup.15, --COOR.sup.16, --CONR.sup.17 R.sup.18, --COR.sup.19, --CR.sup.20 .dbd.NR.sup.21, --N.dbd.CR.sup.22, R.sup.23, --CR.sup.24 .dbd.N--OR.sup.25, --CR.sup.25 R.sup.26 --O--, N.dbd.CR.sup.27 R.sup.28, --CH.sub.2 --OCOR.sup.39 or --NR.sup.37 R.

Abstract: Novel compounds of Formula 1 ##STR1## or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof are disclosed. Also disclosed are pharmaceutical compositions containing compounds of Formula 1. Methods of treating allergy, inflammation and hyperproliferative skin diseases with compounds of Formula 1 are also disclosed.

Abstract: Process for the preparation of the acrylates chosen from those of formula ##STR1## those of formula ##STR2## and those of the formula ##STR3## useful in the production of new polymers and copolymers.

Abstract: Naphthalene derivatives of the formula: ##STR1## wherein R.sup.1, represents a hydrogen atom, a lower alkyl group or an acyl group; R.sup.2 independently represents a hydrogen atom, a lower alkyl group, a lower alkoxy group, a halogen atom, a cycloalkyl group, a cycloalkylalkyl group, a hydroxyl group, an aryl group which may be substituted, an arylalkyl group whose aryl group may be substituted, a heteroaryl group, or a heteroaryllakyl group; R.sup.3 represents a hydrogen atom, a lower alkyl group, a lower alkenyl group, an aryl group which may have a substituent, an arylalkyl group whose aryl group may be substituted, an arylalkenyl group whose aryl group may be substituted, a cycloalkyl group, an alkoxyalkyl group, a heteroaryl group, a heteroarylalkyl group, a carboxyl group, a carboxyalkyl group, an aminoalkyl group, or a cyano group; R.sup.6 is C.sub.1-6 alkyl; and m is 0 or an integer of from 1 to 2 useful in treating autoimmune diseases are disclosed.

Abstract: This invention relates to novel compounds containing basic and acidic termini, pharmaceutical compositions containing such compounds, processes for preparing such compounds, and to methods of using these compounds, alone or in combination with other therapeutic agents, for the inhibition of platelet aggregation, as thrombolytics, and/or for the treatment of thromboembolic disorders.

Abstract: A 4-fluorobiphenyl derivative of formula (I), which is useful as a cholesterol lowering agent or a lipid lowering agent because of its strong inhibitory effect on HMG-CoA reductase), and which is also useful as an intermediate for producing the above-mentioned cholesterol lowering agent or lipid lowering agent: ##STR1## wherein A is a .omega.-oxycarbonyldihydroxybutyl group, a tetrahydropyranyl group, a .omega.-oxycarbonyl-3-oxobutyl group, a formyl group, or a cyano group; R.sup.1 is a halogen atom, an alkyl group, or a group represented by R.sup.5 O--, wherein R.sup.5 is a hydrogen atom, or an alkyl group; R.sup.2 is a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group; R.sup.3 is a hydrogen atom, or an alkyl group; R.sup.5 and R.sup.2 may form a five-membered ring or a six-membered ring in combination with the oxygen atoms to which R.sup.5 and R.sup.2 are respectively bonded, and R.sup.5 and R.sup.3 may form a five-membered ring or a six-membered ring in combination with the oxygen atom to which R.sup.5 is bonded.

Abstract: A process for producing tetrafluorophthalic anhydride, which comprises chlorinating tetrachlorophthalic anhydride to obtain 3,3,4,5,6,7-hexachloro-1-[3H]-isobenzofuranone, then fluorinating it to obtain 3,4,5,6-tetrafluorophthaloyldifluoride and/or 3,3,4,5,6,7-hexafluoro-1-[3H]-isobenzofuranone, and further reacting the tetrafluorophthalolyldifluoride and/or the hexafluoro-1-[3H]-isobenzofuranone with an inorganic base or an organic acid to obtain tetrafluorophthalic anhydride.

Abstract: New substituted phenoxyisobutyric acids and esters that can be used as medicaments and correspond to the formula: ##STR1## wherein X, A, R, R.sub.1, R.sub.2, R.sub.3, R.sub.4, R.sub.5, R.sub.6, R.sub.7 and Z are as defined in the description.Those compounds and their physiologically tolerable salts can be used therapeutically.

Abstract: This invention relates to a process for preparation of the compounds of lignan series in a regioselective manner. This invention provide a process for preparing a compound of the formula (I):which process is characterized by that a lactone compound represented by the formula (II) is allowed to react with a compound of the formula: R.sup.7 Cl in the presence of a base, then the resulting compound is subjected to addition reaction with an acetylenic compound of the formula (III), then the resulting compound is reduced;in which R.sup.1 is alkyl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkyl lower alkyl, or aralkyl and the like; R.sup.2 and R.sup.3 each is lower alkoxy and the like; R.sup.4 is lower alkoxy or hydrogen; and R.sup.5 and R.sup.6 each is lower alkyl; and R.sup.7 is tri(lower alkyl)silyl.

Abstract: The invention relates to (.+-.) trans-2-[-4(1-hydroxyhexyl) phenyl]-5-oxocyclopentaneheptanoic acid, and ester and unsaturated derivatives thereof, prostaglandin derivatives. More particularly, the present invention concerns compounds of the formula I ##STR1## wherein the wavy bonds indicate that .alpha. or .beta. configuration, the dashed bond represents either a single or double bond, which double bond may be a cis or trans double bond and R is a saturated or unsaturated acyclic hydrocarbon group having from 1 to about 20 carbon atoms, or --(CH.sub.2).sub.m R.sub.1 wherein m is 0-10, and R.sub.1 is an aliphatic ring having from about 3 to about 7 carbon atoms, or an aryl or heteroaryl ring having from about 4 to about 10 carbon atoms and wherein the heteroatom is selected from the group consisting of N, O and S. The compounds of the present invention are potent ocular hypotensives, and are particularly suitable for the management of glaucoma.

Abstract: The present invention relates to pyridazine derivatives of formula: ##STR1## which are useful as ligands of cholinergic receptors, in particular, receptors of the M.sub.1 type.

Abstract: Disclosed is a process for the preparation of a 5-hydroxy-3-ketoester derivative of the formula: ##STR1## in which R.sup.1 represents an alkyl group, an alkenyl group, an alkynyl group, an aryl group or a heterocyclic group, and R.sup.2 represents an alkyl group or an aryl group, which comprises causing the reaction of an aldehyde compound of the formula R.sup.1 CHO in which R.sup.1 has the meanings as defined above and diketene in the presence of a metal compound selected from a titanium or aluminum compound having at least one group of --OR.sup.3 in which R.sup.3 represents an alkyl group or an aryl group. Further, a process for the preparation of an optically active substance of the 5-hydroxy-3-ketoester derivative causing the reaction of the above compounds in the presence of the metal compound and optically active Schiff base or a complex compound obtained by reacting the metal compound with the optically active Schiff base, also is disclosed.

Abstract: The invention relates to compounds selected from the group consisting of the formulas: ##STR1## wherein R.sup.2 and Ph are as described herein. These compounds are potent leukotriene B.sub.4 antagonists and are therefore useful in the treatment of inflammatory diseases.

Abstract: An anti-hyperlipemic agent which has a potent activity of reducing LDL and VLDL cholesterols, which are thought to be a risk factor for arteriosclerosis among total blood cholesterols, and which is excellent in the antioxidant activity on LDL, is provided. Additionally, a compound and a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof are disclosed, which is represented by Formula (I): ##STR1## [wherein R.sup.1 is a lower alkyl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkyl-lower alkyl, aryl or aralkyl group which is optionally substituted; R.sup.2 is a group represented by the formula: --COOR' (wherein R' is a lower alkyl or aralkyl which is optionally substituted), lower alkyl or halogenated lower alkyl; or R.sup.1 and R.sup.2, together with adjacent carbonyl group, form a cyclohexanone ring represented by the formula: ##STR2## R.sup.3 is a phenyl group optionally being substituted, and, ring A is a benzene nucleus which is optionally substituted, or a heterocyclic ring containing S or O optionally being substituted].

Abstract: Compounds of the formula ##STR1## wherein X is O or CH.sub.2 ; Y is O, --CH.sub.2 --CH.sub.2 --, --CH.dbd.CH--, --C.tbd.C--, or --OCH.sub.2 C.sub.6 H.sub.4 --;Z is --CH.sub.2 --CH.sub.2 --, --CH.dbd.CH-- or --C.tbd.C--;f, h, k, m and t, independently, are 0 or 1;n is an integer from 1 to 12;R.sup.1 is hydrogen, lower alkyl, lower alkenyl, cycloalkyl, or aralkyl; and A is B or --O--B, wherein B is a mono-, di- or tricyclic aromatic or heteroaromatic moiety substituted by the group --COR.sup.2, --(O).sub.t --(W).sub.s --COR.sup.2 or --(CH.dbd.CH).sub.p COR.sup.2 and which may also contain up to 4 additional substituents selected, independently, from the group consisting of halogen, cyano, lower alkyl, lower alkoxy, sulfonamido, alkanoyl, aroyl, --(Q).sub.k --(W).sub.s' --E or --(Q).sub.k --(W).sub.s" --C.sub.6 H.sub.4 --(W).sub.s'" --E, provided that no more than one of said substituents is --(Q).sub.k --(W).sub.s' --E or --(Q).sub.k --(W).sub.s" --C.sub.6 H.sub.4 --(W).sub.s'" --E, and wherein E is COR.sup.

Abstract: A novel phenylalkanoic acid derivative represented by the following formula ##STR1## wherein n is an integer of 1-2, X is a halogen atom, alkoxyl group or nitro group, R is a hydrogen atom or alkyl group, and Z is a hydrogen atom or acyl group,a method for producing said derivative, a method for separating the optical isomers of said derivative from each other, as well as an anti-inflammatory drug, analgesic drug or preparation for external use each containing said derivative.

Abstract: A process for preparing 4-alkanoylaryl benzyl ethers of the general formula I ##STR1## where R is hydrogen, halogen, cyano; alkyl, alkoxy;X is CH.sub.2, CH--CH.sub.3, CH--CH.sub.2 --CH.sub.3, CH--OCH.sub.3 or N--OCH.sub.3 ;Y is oxygen, sulfur, direct linkage or nitrogen;m is 0, 1, 2 or 3;R.sup.1 is hydrogen; alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl or alkoxy;R.sup.2 is cyano, halogen, alkyl, alkoxy or haloalkyl;R.sup.3 is alkyl; haloalkyl; cycloalkyl; or an unsubstituted or substituted mono- to trinuclear aromatic system,comprises reacting an aryl benzyl ether of the general formula II ##STR2## where X, Y, R, R.sup.1, R.sup.2 and m have the abovementioned meanings, with a carbonyl halide or with a carboxylic anhydride or with a carboxylic sulfonic anhydride in the presence of an acid and in the presence or absence of a diluent.

Abstract: There are described new 1-alkoxyhexatriene-2-carboxylates of the formula (I) ##STR1## in which R represents substituted phenyl,and a plurality of processes for their preparation.The new 1-alkoxyhexytriene-2-carboxylates are used as pesticides.

Abstract: An anti-hyperlipemic agent which has a potent activity of reducing LDL and VLDL cholesterols, which are thought to be a risk factor for arteriosclerosis among total blood cholesterols, and which is excellent in the antioxidant activity on LDL, is provided. Additionally, a compound and a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof are disclosed, which is represented by Formula (I): ##STR1## [wherein R.sup.1 is a power alkyl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkyl-lower alkyl, aryl or aralkyl group which is optionally substituted; R.sup.2 is a group represented by the formula: --COOR' (wherein R' is a lower alkyl or aralkyl which is optionally substituted), lower alkyl or halogenated lower alkyl; or R.sup.1 and R.sup.2, together with adjacent carbonyl group, form a cyclohexanone ring represented by the formula: ##STR2## R.sup.3 is a phenyl group optionally being substituted, and, ring A is a benzene nucleus which is optionally substituted, or a heterocyclic ring containing S or O optionally being substituted].

Abstract: Novel substituted cyclic compounds of Formula I are found to be useful inhibitors of matrix metalloendoproteinase-mediated diseases including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, septic arthritis, tumor invasion in certain cancers, periodontal disease, corneal ulceration, proteinuria, dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, and coronary thrombosis associated with atherosclerotic plaque rupture. The matrix metalloendoproteinases are a family of zinc-containing proteinases including but not limited to stromelysin, collagenase, and gelatinase, that are capable of degrading the major components of articular cartilage and basement membranes. The inhibitors claimed herein may also be useful in preventing the pathological sequelae following a traumatic injury that could lead to a permanent disability. These compounds may also be useful as novel birth control agents by preventing ovulation or implantation.

Abstract: Certain novel biaryl compounds are effective phospholipase A.sub.2 (PLA.sub.2) inhibitors.

Abstract: Compounds of the formula I ##STR1## where n, W, X, Y, Z, R.sup.1, R.sup.2, and R.sup.3 are as defined herein exhibit fungicidal, insecticidal, and acaracidal activity.

Abstract: The present invention provides alkyl and alkylbenzyl ethers of substituted hydroquinones and pharmaceutical compositions containing them. The present invention further provides methods of using these compounds and compositions to inhibit monoamine oxidase, particularly monoamine oxidase B. The present invention further provides methods for the treatment of diseases involving monoamine oxidase.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an .alpha.-methylene-cyclopentanone derivative represented by the formula [I] below which is useful as an intermediate for pharmaceuticals and insecticides, especially prostaglandins. Also disclosed herein is a process for producing the derivative advantageously on an industrial scale. ##STR1## where X denotes (.alpha.-OZ, .beta.-H) or (.alpha.-H, .beta.-OZ), with Z representing a protecting group for the hydroxyl group; U denotes (.alpha.-H, .beta.-R.sup.1) or (.beta.-R.sup.1, .alpha.-H); R.sup.1 denotes ##STR2## where R.sup.2 denotes a protected hydroxyl group, a substituted or unsubstituted C.sub.1-15 alkyl group, a substituted or unsubstituted C.sub.2-15 alkenyl group, a substituted or unsubstituted C.sub.2-15 alkynyl group, or a substituted or unsubstituted C.sub.6-15 aryl group; Z' denotes a protecting group for the hydroxyl group; and k is 0 or 1).

Abstract: The invention relates to compounds of the formula ##STR1## R is hydrogen, lower alkyl, --(CH.sub.2).sub.2 N(R.sub.3).sub.2 or --CH.sub.2 OOCR.sub.3 wherein R.sub.3 is lower alkyl;R.sub.1 is CH.sub.3 (CH.sub.2).sub.n --, wherein n is 0-17, or R.sub.4 (CH.sub.2).sub.p --, wherein p is 2-18 and R.sub.4 is 1- or 2-naphthyloxy, 2,3- or 3,4-dihydroxyphenyl, phenyl, phenoxy, or substituted phenyl or phenoxy wherein the substituent is selected from the group consisting of hydroxy, benzyloxy, methylsulfinyl, methylsulfonyl or phenyl;R.sub.2 is R.sub.4 (CH.sub.2).sub.p --, 1-adamantyl--CO-- or diphenylmethyl--CO--, and, when R is hydrogen, pharmaceutically acceptable salts with bases.The compounds of formula I are potent inhibitors of phospholipases A.sub.2 (PLA.sub.2 's) and are therefore useful in the treatment of diseases, such as psoriasis, inflammatory bowel disease, asthma, allergy, arthritis, dermatitis, gout, pulmonary disease, myocardial ischemia, and trauma induced inflammation, such as spinal cord injury.