THE BIOTRANSFORMATION OF 3α-HYDROXY-17-KETOSTEROIDS

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Abstract
The metabolism of 3[alpha]-hydroxy-[DELTA]5-androsten-17-one (I) was studied in man. Following large intravenous and oral quantities of I, androsterone plus aetiocholanolone accounted respectively for 14% and 23% of the amount administered. In both studies 5% of I was recovered unchanged and no evidence was obtained for significant formation of dehydroepi-androsterone. Rapid oxidation of the 3a-hydroxyl group of I following intravenous injection of 3[alpha]-hydroxy-[DELTA]5-androsten-17-one-3[beta]-3H occurred as evidenced by tritium in body water. There was only trace radioactivity in androsterone and aetiocholanolone. Labeled I was recovered in about 13% yield. Oxidation of the 3[alpha]-hydroxyl group was also shown to occur with 3[alpha] -hydroxyaetiocholan-17-one-3[beta]-3H with a 55% recovery of steroid. The significance of the results and the metabolic pathways involved are discussed.