Recent Advances in Thiasteroids Chemistry

The document from December 1, 2006, reviews advancements in thiasteroids chemistry from 1983 to 2006, focusing on the synthesis of sulfur-containing steroid analogs and their biological activities. It details various synthetic strategies for thiasteroids based on the position of the sulfur atom within the steroidal structure, including successful and unsuccessful attempts, with yields ranging from 15% to 85%. The paper reports on the first total synthesis of 11-thiasteroids and discusses the biological activities of azasteroids, such as local anesthetic and anti-inflammatory effects. It also explores the potential of thia-analogues in treating conditions like androgenic alopecia and prostatic carcinoma, and the synthesis of novel estrogens. The document concludes that the synthesis of steroid analogues with heteroatoms like sulfur can lead to more selective biological actions and that further understanding of steroid biochemistry and molecular biology will enhance the exploration of steroid receptors.