Review: Synthesis of Cortisone - Organic Chemistry II

Explore the fascinating world of steroid hormone synthesis in this 52-minute lecture from Yale University's Freshman Organic Chemistry II course. Delve into the history of Nobel Prize-winning discoveries related to steroid hormones and examine Woodward's 1951 total synthesis of cortisone as a comprehensive review of organic reactions. Learn about the challenges of sequential syntheses, the practical approaches to cortisone production using naturally available steroids, and key milestones in total synthesis of both natural products and designed pharmaceuticals. Gain insights into the intellectual and commercial aspects of organic synthesis while appreciating the contributions of researchers and educators in the field.