Medicinal Chemistry, 2nd Edition

Chapter 33

Steroids

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

• Define steroids and the biosynthetic pathway of steroidal hormones

• Describe the mode of action of steroidal hormones

• Define oestrogens and describe their functions

• Describe the therapeutically useful oestrogens and progestins

• Define androgens and their major functions

• Describe the glucocorticoids and their mode of action

• Describe the importance of structure and activity profile of all steroidal hormones

33.1 INTRODUCTION

Steroids are structurally related compounds that have a common cyclopentano perhydro phenanthrene nucleus. They are widely distributed in the plant and animal kingdom. The fused tetracyclic steroid nucleus provides the carbon framework for at least four large groups of mammalian ...