Lipase-catalyzed preparation of corticosteroid 17α-esters endowed with antiandrogenic activity

Several 17 alpha-monoesters of cortexolone and its Delta(9)-derivative are endowed with antiandrogenic activity. Their synthesis can be accomplished by means of a lipase-catalyzed chemoselective alcoholysis of the corresponding 17 alpha,21-diesters. (c) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.