Process for converting 17-keto-steroids to 16-beta-methyl-17-keto-steroids

摘要

Δ⁴-3-keto, Δ^1,4-3-keto and 3β-hydroxy-17-keto-steroids are transformed into the corresponding 16β-methyl-17-keto--steroids by activating the C-16 position, methylating, and reacting with a strong base. The C-3 position of the Δ⁴-3-keto and 3β-hydroxy-steroids is protected.