Two Decades of the Chemistry of Prostanoid and Related Compounds in Estonia

Abstract

The results of the advanced preparative biosynthesis of prostaglandins (PGs), the mechanism of their biosynthesis in the soft coral Gersemia fruticosa, identification of minor PGs and steroids are summarized against the general scientific background. The development of the total PG synthesis in Estonia is covered as well. This part consists of the results of cuprate synthesis, the so-called borate synthesis in the framework of [3.2.o]bicycloheptanone, and epoxyde displacement approaches. The use of lipase catalysis in the total synthesis and its possible role in the PG biosynthesis in Plexaura homomalla is shown.