A simple and efficient synthesis of [3α-3H]5α-androst-16-en-3β-ol

An efficient one step synthesis of [3α-3H]5α-androst-16-en-3β-ol by NaBT4 reduction of a ketone precursor is described. The specific activity of the product was 21.6 Ci/mmol with a radiochemical purity >99%. Synthesis of the precursor, 5α-androst-16-en-3-one, from commercially available 5α-androst-16-en-3α-ol is also presented. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.