SEASTARS
Synthesis and Biotransformation of Formestane
Author(s): Scott Shaw , Anne Marti , Glenroy Martin
Abstract:
Formestane is a biologically active steroid in the class of aromatase inhibitors. It is
used in the treatment of breast cancer and ovarian cancer in postmenopausal woman. It
suppresses the production of estrogen by inhibiting the aromatase enzyme which converts
androgens into estrogens. In an attempt to increase its bioavailability the synthesis of
formestane from testosterone was attempted. The structures of the steroid intermediates
were determined by chemical and spectroscopic means.