Abstract:
The invention provides a method of using pregnadienones and pregnadienols represented by the structural formula (I) as shown herein below 
                         
 
Wherein X═OH or O or combination thereof and positioning of olefinic bonds are at 4(5); 5(6); 16(17); 17(20) or various combinations and said compounds containing at least one olefinic bond in or on their D-ring for the treatment of hyperlipidemic and hyperglycemic conditions in mammals, said method comprising administering an effective amount of the said compounds to the recipient mammals.

Description:
This is a division of application Ser. No. 09/280,448, filed Mar. 30, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,579,862 which is incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     This invention relates to the novel use of D-ring unsaturated pregnadienols/pregnadienones represented by general formula (I) as shown in the accompanying drawings, possessing both pronounced hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic activities and devoid of androgenic and progestational activities. More particularly this invention relates to the novel use of 3β-hydroxy-pregna-5,16-dienone an important prototype of this class, represented by the formula (II) as shown in the accompanying drawings, for the treatment of diabetes and pronounced hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic activities. 
     BACKGROUND 
     High plasma cholesterol and related lipids are known to be one of the factors that predispose an individual to atherosclerosis and thus to myocardial infarction. Diabetes mellitus, which eventually impairs the function of kidneys, eyes, nervous and vascular systems, is quite often associated with lipid disorders. Both hyperlipidemia and diabetes mellitus require long term management and pose problems in choice of pharmacotherapeutic interventions when these conditions manifest together. Though a number of drugs are known separately to treat these conditions, there are a number of side effects associated with them which limit their long term use. 
     The most important hypolipidemic drugs available today belong to the statin and fibrate classes [McCarthy, P. A., Med. Res. Rev., 13, 139-59 (1993)] whereas hypoglycemic drugs fall into the category of sulphonylureas, biguanidines and amidines [Wolff, M. E. (Ed), Burger&#39;s Medicinal Chemistry Part II, 1045 (1981), John Wiley &amp; Sons, New York]. However, these therapeutic agents are not free of side effects-statins (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors) the most widely used drugs today which hitherto were thought to be very safe drugs, have exhibited side effects following long term therapy [Carrier, M. et al.; Ann. Thorac. Surg., 57, 353-6 (1994)]. The adverse effects which have become the source of concern, are increases in hepatic transaminases and myopathies [Witztum, J. L., In Goodman &amp; Gilman&#39;s The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, eds. Hardman, J. et al. 9 th  edition, McGraw Hill, New York pp. 875-98, Fukami, M. et al; Res. Exp. Med., 193, 263-73 (1993); Appelkvist, E. et al.; Clin. Invest., 71 (suppl 8), 597-102 (1993), Wills, R. A. et al.; Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. (US), 87, 8928-30 (1990)] and carcinogenesis, especially breast cancer in subjects undergoing treatment with pravastatin [Braunwald, E.; Scrip, 2117, 33 (1996)); Ciaravino, V. et al.; Mutat. Res.; 353, 95-107 (1995)]. The incidence of myopathy associated with rhabdomyolysis and renal failure is increased subsequent to such treatment [East, C. et al.; N. Engl. J. Med., 318, 47-48 (1998); Pierce L. R. et al.; J. Am.Med. Assoc., 265, 71-75 (1990)]. Also, these HMG-CoA inhibitors block mevalonate production which occurs at an early stage in cholesterol synthetic pathway. Mevalonate is a common precursor for all isoprenoids such as ubiquinones (Co-enzyme Q-10), the dolichols, isopentenyl t-RNA etc. Therefore, long term blockade of mevalonate synthesis leads to Q-10 deficiency. Serum Co-enzyme Q-10 is important for cardiac function [Laaksonen, R. et al., Eur. J. Clin. Pharmacol. 46,313-7 (1994); Bargossi, A. M. et al; Int.J. Clin. Lab. Res., 24, 171-6 (1994)]. The most common side-effects of fibrates and particularly clofibrate therapy are gastrointestinal upsets including nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, dyspepsia, flatulence and abdominal discomfort [Oliver, M. F. et al.; Br. Heart J., 40,1069-1118 (1978)]. Elevated creatine phosphokinase concentration during clofibrate therapy may be associated with a syndrome of muscle pain and weakness. Large-scale long-term studies have demonstrated an increased incidence of cholecystitis, gallstones and sometimes pancreatitis in patients receiving clofibrate and some studies have indicated cardiovascular disorders [The coronary Drug Project Research Group; N. Engl. J. Med., 296, 1185-90 (1977)]. The unexpected finding of an increased mortality rate in patients taking clofibrate in the WHO study produced serious concern over the long-term safety of clofibrate and ultimately led to its withdrawal in many countries [Oliver, M. F. et al.; Lancet, ii, 600-604 (1984)]. 
     The adverse effects of biguanidine antidiabetic agents include gastro-intestinal disturbances like diarrhoea and lactic acidosis [Paterson, K. R. et al.; Adverse Drug React Acute Poisoning Rev., 3, 173-82 (1984)]. With sulphonylureas the commonly associated adverse effects are hypoglycemia, gastrointestinal disturbances, hypersensitivity and vascular complications [Paice, B. J. et al., Adverse Drug React. Acute Poisoning, 4, 23-26 (1985)]. As diabetes and hyperlipidemia are quite commonly manifesting together, it would be of great clinical benefit if the same compound could have both these activities together because the available drugs are not free of toxic effects and neither data regarding toxic manifestations are available when drugs for two clinical conditions are mixed together. 
     Two approaches currently being pursued in search of drugs with hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic activities together. The first approach emerged during detailed study of antihypertensive action of adrenergic receptor modulators. The study revealed that a,-adrenergic blockers (particularly Doxazosin and Prazosin) [Lithell, H. O.; J. Hypertens, 15 (Suppl 1), S 39-42 (1997); Poliare, T. et al.; Diabetologia, 31, 415-420 (1988); Anderson, P. E. et al.; Am. J. Hypertens, 9, 323-333 (1996)] and β 3 -adrenergic agonist (BTA-243, BRL-37344, CGP 12177, CL 316243 [Arch, J. R. S. et al.; Med. Res. Rev., 13, 663-729 (1993); Largis, E. E. et al.; Drug Dev. Res., 32, 69-76 (1994)] also affect plasma lipoprotein metabolism and increase insulin sensitivity. As a result such antihypertensive drugs exhibit lipid lowering and hypoglycemic actions together. α 1 -adrenergic receptor blockers, however have the inherent limitations of causing orthostatic hypotension and syncope [Matyus, P.; Med. Res. Rev., 17(6), 523-35 (1977)]. The essential requirement of β 3 -agonist for antiobesity and antidiabetic actions is the need for high selectivity for β 3 -adrenoceptor. Any substantial β 1 - or β 2 -agonism would likely cause increased heart rate and muscle tremor respectively which are unacceptable in a drug which could be administered on long term basis [Connacher, A. A. et al.; Brit. Med. J., 296,1217-20 (1988); Mitchell, T. H. et al; Int. J. Obesity., 13(6), 757-66 (1989)]. The second line of approach for dual activity came into light during the study of anti-oxidant property of drugs. There have been many reports describing relationships between peroxidation and diseases such as diabetes mellitus, atherosclerosis and myocardial ischemia in terms of radical oxidation. Troglitazone, an antioxidant drug has been developed as an oral hypoglycemic agent which enhances the action of insulin in peripheral tissues and liver besides its hypolipidemic effects. However, troglitazone is also not free of major side effect causing liver damage. The drug, troglitazone, has been implicated in 35 cases of liver disease leading to one transplant and one death [Warner-Lambert; Chem. &amp; Ind., No. 22, 897 (1977)]. Thus to the best of our knowledge no class of compound is yet available which has both effects together as the main action and have a fair safety margin. 
     We, in early eighties started our work for search of such compounds which have effect on endogenous transportation of lipids and glucose rather than interfering with exogenous transportation. Our research was mainly based on secondary metabolic actions of progesterone. 
     Progesterone, apart from its classical hormonal action on the reproductive system, is known to modulate lipid, carbohydrate, insulin and protein metabolism. The rise in the level of progesterone in the first trimester of pregnancy causes hyperphagia, pancreatic islet hypertrophy, hyperinsulinemia and body fat and glycogen deposition, when the metabolic demands of the fetus are very low. However, in the latter half of pregnancy, although the progesterone levels are still high, the carbohydrate, lipid and protein reservoirs shift into circulation to meet the needs of the growing fetus. [Kalkhoff, R. K.; Am. J. Obstet. Gynecol., 142, 735-38 (1982)]. 
     Progesterone thus, having actions both on the reproductive and metabolic systems, seemed to offer the possibility of dissociating these two biological activities by structural modifications. The experience of the development of second generation progestins supported this contention. The first generation progestins such as levonorgestrel exhibited undesirable pharmacologic effects like alteration in carbohydrate and lipoprotein metabolism, weight gain and hypertension, which was shown to be related to their intrinsic androgenic/anabolic activity and ability to bind with androgen receptors. The androgenic affinity has been attributed to C-17 hydroxy functionality which makes these molecules resemble androgens. In recently discovered second generation progestins such as gestodene and 3-keto-desogestrel, an additional olefinic bond either in C- or D-ring brought a dramatic decrease in their affinity to androgen receptors (Table 1). As a result these compounds have a very high order of progestational effect with practically no androgenic activity and did not cause hyperlipidemia [London, R. S.; Obstetrical &amp; Gynocological Survey, 47, 777-81 (1992)]. 
     
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 1 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Relative Binding Affinity of Contraceptive Progestins 
               
               
                 for Progesterone and Androgen receptors 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                   
                 Progestin 
                 Androgen 
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                 Receptor 
                 Receptor 
                 Selectivity 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Binding 
                 Binding 
                 Index* 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Affinity 
                 Affinity 
                 (A/P ratio) 
               
               
                   
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 Progesterone 
                 1.00 
                 0.005 
                 93 
               
               
                   
                 Levonorgestrel 
                 5.41 
                 0.220 
                 11 
               
               
                   
                 3-Keto-desogestrel 
                 8.6 
                 0.120 
                 33 
               
               
                   
                 Gestodene 
                 9.21 
                 0.154 
                 28 
               
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 *The higher the selectivity index, the greater the separation between the dose needed to achieve the desired progestational effect and the dose associated with the undesired androgenic effect [Collins, D. C.; Am. J. Obstet. Gynecol. 170, 1508-13(1994)].  
               
             
          
         
       
     
     OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION 
     It is an object of the invention to explore the possibility of designing pregnadienones which while preserving the ability to modulate lipid and carbohydrate metabolism would not have any progestational effect. It would be pertinent to point out that earlier, the applicants had isolated a D-ring modified pregnenolone, named Gugulsterone represented by formula (9) as shown in Table 2, from guggul resin obtained from  Commiphora mukul , which had potent hypolipidemic effect without any progestational effect [Arya, V. P.; Drugs Fut. 13, 618 (1998)]. 
     It is another object of the invention to explore the possibility of dissociating the hypolipidemic and insulin sensitizing activities of progesterone from its hormonal actions. Accordingly, the applicants focused their attention to prepare and investigate analogues/prototypes with additional substituents in ring-D of pregnadienones. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  (A) represents the structural formula of compounds belonging to the class of pregnadienones and pregnadienols and 
         FIG. 1  (B) represents the structural formula of 3β-hydroxypregna-5,16-dien-20-one. 
       FIGS.  2 (A)- 2 (F) represents the structural formulae of hormones. 
     
    
    
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In accordance with the above objectives, the applicant&#39;s present invention relates to a method of using D-ring unsaturated pregnadienones represented by structural formula (I) which causes significant fall of serum cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL-cholesterol and glucose with mild increase in HDL-cholesterol, said method comprising administration of effective amounts of said compounds of formula (I) to mammals. The compounds possess fair safety margin having antioxidant and cardio protection activities. 
     The invention also provides a method of treatment of hyperlipidemic and hyperglycemic conditions which comprises administration to a recipient a therapeutic composition comprising a pharmaceutically effective amount of compound D-ring unsaturated preganadienones represented by the general formula (I) as shown hereinbelow and in the accompanying drawings: 
                        
 
Wherein X═OH or O or combination thereof and positioning of olefinic bonds are at 4(5); 5(6); 16(17); 17(20) or various combinations
 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention concerns methods for lowering serum cholesterol, triglycerides and glucose levels in subjects with obesity and diabetic conditions or prophylactically holding in check the symptoms of such a disease state. 
     In particular, the applicants, during their study, have observed that the prenadienone, 3β-hydroxypregna-5,16-dien-20-one represented by the structural formula (II) shown hereinbelow and in the accompanying drawings is useful for the and hyperglycemic conditions. 
                        
 
     Accordingly, the invention provides a method of using compounds represented by the structural formula (I) as shown in the accompanying drawings, containing at least one olefinic bond in or on their D-ring for the treatment of hyperlipidemic and hyperglycemic conditions in mammals, said method comprising administering an effective amount of the said compounds to recipient mammals. 
     In one embodiment, the compounds of formula (I) are administered in the form of tablets, capsules or injectibles. 
     In another embodiment, the compounds of formula (I) are characterized as pregnadienones and pregnadienols. 
     In yet another embodiment, the most preferred compound belonging to the family of preganienones and pregnadienols represented by formula (I) is 3β-hydroxy-pregna-5,16-dien-20-one, which is represented by the structural formula (II) as shown in the accompanying drawings. 
     In a further embodiment, the compounds of formula (I) are optionally administered to the recipient mammal as an admixture with conventional anti-platelet, anti-atherosclerotic, hypolipoproteinic and antidiabetic drugs. 
     In still another embodiment, the compounds of formula (I) are essentially free of side effects associated with conventional hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic drugs. 
     In an embodiment, the compounds of formula (I) exhibit cardioprotective, anti-diabetic, anti-atherosclerotic and anti-oxidant properties. 
     Further, the invention provides a method of treatment of hyperlipidemic and hyperglycemic conditions in mammals, which comprises administration to a recipient, a therapeutic composition comprising an effective amount of compound of formula (I) with conventional carriers. 
     In an embodiment, the recipient mammals are selected from the group comprising rats, human beings, rhesus monkeys and rabbits. 
     In another embodiment, the conventional carriers are selected from anti-platelet, anti-atherosclerotic, hypolipoproteinic and anti-diabetic drugs. 
     In yet another embodiment, the said compounds of formula (I) essentially contain an olefinic bond in or on their D-ring. 
     In a further embodiment, the compounds of formula (I) are essentially free of androgenic, progestinal and side effects. 
     In still another embodiment, the therapeutic composition is administered in the form of tablets, capsules and injectibles. 
     In another embodiment, the said preganadienones and preganadienols exhibit cardio protective, antidiabetic, antiatheroselerotic and antioxidant properties. 
     In yet another embodiment, the said preganadienones and pregnadienols of formula (I) essentially contain olefinic bond in one of the D-rings. 
     Method of Synthesis/production 
     The methods of synthesis are essentially known in the literature, can be obtained from diosgenin by chemical degradation [G. Rosenleranz “History of Steroids”, Steroids, 57, 409 (1992)]. Although, it was later isolated from Veratrum Grandiflorum [Kanko, K. et al; Phytochemistry, 12 1509 (1973)] but yield is too low to be of any practical value. Oppenauer oxidation of 2 with aluminium-isopropoxide and cyciohexanone in toluene produces 4,16-dienpregna-3,20-dione [16-dehydroprogesterone, (3)]. The C-16 (17) olefinic bond in (1) is selectively reduced with Pd-C in diethylether at very low hydrogen gas pressure. The resultant product 4 on basic hydrolysis furnishes 5. The procedure of Benn and Dodson [J. Org. Chem. 29, 1142 (1964)] was followed for the preparation of Gugulsterone (9). The reduction of 16-DPA (1) with lithium aluminium hydride produces diol 6 which after Sigmatropic rearrangement in presence of p-toluenesulphonic acid, acetic acid and acetic anhydride produces the diacetate 7. Basic hydrolysis of the diacetate 7 followed by Oppenauer oxidation furnishes an 80:20 mixture of E&amp;Z-Gugulsterone (9). 
     5. BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITY 
     5.1 Hypolipidemic Activity 
     The primary hypolipidemic effect of these compounds was established in triton induced hyperlipidemia in Charles Foster rats. The compounds which exhibited significant lipid lowering effect in this model were then evaluated for their hypolipidemic effect in normal, and diet induced hyperlipidemic rats, rabbits and rhesus monkeys. 
     5.1.1 Hypolipidemic Activity in Triton Treated Rats 
     The cholesterol lowering effect of some representative compounds of pregrenadienols and pregrenadienones as compared to clofibrate and gugulsterone in triton treated Charles Foster rats is described in Table-2. 
     
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 2 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Cholesterol lowering effect of pregnane compounds as compared to Clofibrate in 
               
               
                 Triton treatcd rats 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 % 
               
               
                 Compd. 
                   
                   
                 Dose (i.p.) 
                 Change 
               
               
                 No. 
                 Compound 
                 Structure 
                 mg/kg 
                 S. Chol. 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 1 
                 3β-Acetoxypregna- 5,16-dien-20-one (16-DPA) 
                 
                   
                             
                     
                         
                         
                     
                   
                 
                 50 
                 −43 
               
               
                 2 
                 3β-Hydroxypregna-5,16- dien-20-one 
                 
                   
                             
                     
                         
                         
                     
                   
                 
                 50 
                 −46 
               
               
                 3 
                 4,16-Dienpregna-3,20-dione 
                 
                   
                             
                     
                         
                         
                     
                   
                 
                 50 
                 −13 
               
               
                 4 
                 3β-Aceoxypregna-5-en-20- one 
                 
                   
                             
                     
                         
                         
                     
                   
                 
                 100 
                 −12 
               
               
                 5 
                 3β-Hydroxypregna-5-en-20-one 
                 
                   
                             
                     
                         
                         
                     
                   
                 
                 100 
                 −09 
               
               
                 6 
                 5,16-Dien-pregnane-3,20-diol 
                 
                   
                             
                     
                         
                         
                     
                   
                 
                 50 
                 −10 
               
               
                 7 
                 5,17(20)-Dienpregna-3,16- diol-diacetate 
                 
                   
                             
                     
                         
                         
                     
                   
                 
                 50 
                 −33 
               
               
                 8 
                 5,17(20)-Dienpregna-3,16-diol 
                 
                   
                             
                     
                         
                         
                     
                   
                 
                 50 
                 −31 
               
               
                 9 
                 Gugulsterone 
                 
                   
                             
                     
                         
                         
                     
                   
                 
                 50 
                 −44 
               
               
                 10 
                 Clofibrate 
                   
                 200  
                 −15 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
     The results showed that of the compounds tested, the highest effect was exhibited by 16-DPA (1) and its 3-des-acetyl analog 2 comparable to gugulsterone (9), and that the removal of double bond in ring D of 1 or 2 almost abolished the effect. 
     5.1.2 Hypolipidemic Activity of 3β-Hydroxypregna-5,16-dien-20-one (2) in Normal Rats 
     In normal rats, 3β-hydroxypregna-5,16-dien-20one (2), at 50 mg/kg produced a significant lowering of serum cholesterol and triglycerides as describe in Table-3 below. The animals did not develop any tolerance to the compound even after administering for 30 days. 
                                                                                               TABLE 3                   Hypolipidemic activity of 3β-Hydroxypregna-5,       16-dien-20-one (2) in normal rats                        Serum               Serum Cholesterol       Triglycerides   % Fall           (mg %)       (mg %)   compared            Treatment   0 Days   30 Days   % Fall   30 Days   to control                    2 (50 mg/kg)   71.5 ± 1.8   43.2 ± 2.9   40   42.0 ± 2.8   35       (8)       Clofibrate   82.3 ± 3.3   53.2 ± 2.0   36   47.3 ± 3.2   28       (50 mg/kg)       (6)       Normal   83.3 ± 3.1   80.1 ± 1.4   —   65.2 ± 2.9   —       saline       (control)       (6)               Mean values ± SD.        FIG. in parenthesis represent number of animals.             
5.1.3 Hypolipidemic Activity in Diet Induced Hyperlipidemic Rats
 
     Twenty three normal male rats average weight 110-120 g were taken for study and were divided into four groups. Group l: animals received special diet and 3β-hydroxypregna-5,16-dien-20-one (2) 50 mg/kg p.o. in 1% gum acacia. Group II: animals received 3β-hydroxypregna-5,16-dien-20-one (2), 100 mg/kg p.o. in 1% gum acacia and special diet. Group III: animals received special fat diet and 1% gum acacia and served as control. Group IV: animals were fed with stock diet and served as normal control. All animals were sacrificed at the end of 36 days. Blood was drawn from the tail at 10 days and from the aorta at the time of sacrifice for estimation of serum cholesterol, triglycerides and HDL-cholesterol. LDL-cholesterol was calculated as described. [Roschlau, P. In: Methods of Enzymatic Analysis 4th ed., H. U. Bergmeyer, Ed (Academic Press, New York) 1975 p 1890; Wahlefield, W. A. In: Methods of Enzymatic Analysis, 4th ed.; H. U. Bergmeyer, Ed. (Academic Press, New York) 1974 p 1831.] 
     Results 
     Animals treated with 3β-yydroxypregna-5,16-dien-20-one (2), at 50 and 100 mg/kg showed a significant lowering in serum cholesterol by 31 and 59%, triglycerides by 55 and 62%, LDL-cholesterol by 27 and 74% respectively (Table -4 &amp; 5). 
     
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 4 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Effect of 3β-Hydroxypregna-5,16-dien-20-one (2) on serum cholesterol and 
               
               
                 triglycerides in hyperlipidemic rats 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 Serum Cholesterol (mg %) 
                 Serum Triglycerides 
               
               
                   
                 Days 
                 (mg %) 
               
             
          
           
               
                 Treatment 
                 0 
                 10 
                 36 
                 0 
                 36 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 I 
                 69.1 ± 9.9  
                 212.4 ± 23.8  
                  165 ± 26.7 
                 48.8 ± 7.0  
                 61.5 ± 10.5 
               
               
                 2(50 mg/kg) + HFD 
                 (7) 
                 (7) 
                 (7) 
                 (6) 
                 (6) 
               
               
                 % Decrease 
                   
                 16 
                 31 
                   
                 55 
               
               
                 (Compound to 
               
               
                 group III) 
               
               
                 II 
                 60.8 ± 10.3 
                 145.5 ± 10.6  
                 106.4 ± 4.6  
                  50 ± 7.1 
                 53.0 ± 7.5  
               
               
                 2(100 mg/kg) + HFD 
                 (6) 
                 (6) 
                 (5) 
                 (5) 
                 (5) 
               
               
                 % Decrease 
                   
                 48 
                 59 
                   
                 62 
               
               
                 (Compound to 
               
               
                 group III) 
               
               
                 III 
                 73.2 ± 5.8  
                  325 ± 29.8 
                 293.2 ± 16.6  
                 48.75 ± 5.1  
                 137.5 ± 8.5  
               
               
                 HFD 
                 (5) 
                 (5) 
                 (5) 
                 (4) 
                 (4) 
               
               
                 IV Normal Diet 
                   
                  72 ± 7.1 
                   
                   
                 48.2 ± 4.3  
               
               
                   
                   
                 (5) 
                   
                   
                 (5) 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 HFD = High fat diet, Values are Mean ± SD. FIGS. in parenthesis are number of animals  
               
             
          
         
       
     
                                                         TABLE 5                   Effect of 3β-Hydroxypregna-5,16-dien-20-one (2) on       HDL and LDL-cholesterol in hyperlipidemic rats                HDL-Cholesterol   LDL-Cholesterol           (mg %)   (mg %)            Treatment   Day 0   Day 36   Day 0   Day 36               I HFD   37.25 ± 5.0    39.75 ± 2.8    27.5 ± 6.3    189.25 ± 18.0                (4)   (4)   (4)       II 2(50 mg/kg) +   34.8 ± 5.8    37.57 ± 2.8    24.5 ± 14.2   123.87 ± 14.0        HFD   (7)   (7)   (7)   (6)       % Change       181       271       III 2(100 mg/kg) +   43.4 ± 8.3    47.2 ± 3.7    10.02 ± 8.5    48.64 ± 5.1        HFD   (5)   (5)   (5)   (5)       % Change       161       741               HFD = High fat diet. Values are Mean ± SD. FIGS. in parenthesis are number of animals             
5.1.4 Hypolipidemic Activity in Hyperlipidemic Rabbits
 
     Effect of 3β-Hydroxypregna-5,16-dien-20-one (2) was studied on hypercholesterolemic albino rabbits. Twelve male albino rabbits (approx 1.5-2 kg) on a stock diet were made hyperlipidemic by feeding daily cholesterol 0.5 g/kg in 2 ml of groundnut oil for 45 days and then blood was drawn from the marginal vein in the ear of rabbits for serum cholesterol and triglycerides estimation. 
     Two controlled experiments were carried out for a period of three months. In one set of experiments, the control group received 0.5 g/kg of cholesterol for 90 days and 3β-Hydroxypregna-5,16-dien-20-one (2) in dose of 100 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg while in control group (given only cholesterol) a massive rise of serum cholesterol and triglycerides were seen after 90 days, the addition of 3β-Hydroxypregna-5,16dien-20-one (2) at 50 and 100 mg/kg doses kept the rise well under control. The percentage decrease at 100 mg dose was 28% at 30 days to 52% at 90 days for cholesterol and 45 to 81% for triglycerides. In the 50 mg/kg dose group the decrease percentage ranged from 40% at 30 days to 50% at 90 days for cholesterol and 45% at 30 days to 75% at 90 days for triglyceride (Table6) 
     
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 6 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Effect of 3β-Hydroxypregna-5,16-dien-20-one (2) in 
               
               
                 hyperlipidemic male albino rabbits 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 S. Cholesterol (mg %) 
                 S.Triglycerides 
               
               
                   
                 Days 
                 (mg %) Days 
               
             
          
           
               
                 Treatment 
                 30 
                 60 
                 90 
                 30 
                 60 
                 90 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 Expt. 1.A 
                 296.3 
                 435.5 
                 1337.5 
                 69.0 
                 150.0 
                 161.0 
               
               
                 Control + cholesterol(0.5 g/ 
               
               
                 kg) 
               
               
                 Expt. 1.B 
                 213.3 
                 309.3 
                 633.7 
                 79.0 
                 54.0 
                 44.2 
               
               
                 2(100 mg/kg) + cholesterol 
               
               
                 (0.5 g/kg) 
               
               
                 % Decrease 
                 28 
                 42 
                 53 
                 46 
                 64 
                 81 
               
               
                 Expt. II.A Control + 
                 317.8 
                 531.8 
                 1334.6 
                 145.0 
                 185.8 
                 232.0 
               
               
                 cholesterol(0.5 g/kg) 
               
               
                 Expt. II.B 2 (50 mg/kg) + 
                 190.5 
                 305.5 
                 660.3 
                 79.5 
                 67.0 
                 56.5 
               
               
                 cholesterol(0.5 g/kg) 
               
               
                 % Decrease 
                 40 
                 43 
                 51 
                 45 
                 64 
                 76 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
                                           TABLE 7                   Hypolipidemic effect in hyperlipidemic rabbits (120 days experiment)                Stock diet +       HFD + Guglip +   HFD + 2       Parameters   Normal saline   HFD   2(100 mg/kg)   (100 mg/kg)               Serum Cholesterol (mg/dl)   56.3 ± 3.1    1367.0 ± 203     258.6 ± 28.2    350.0 ± 28.1        % Decrease (Compared with           81   74       HFD)       Serum Triglycerides   50.0 ± 2.1    188.0 ± 10.2    66.2 ± 4.1     74.2 ± 10.3       % Decrease (Compared with           65   61       HFD)                    
5.1.5 Hypolipidemic Activity in Rhesus Monkeys
 
     In Rhesus monkeys: 3β-Hydroxypregna-5,16-dien-20one (2) was administered orally daily for 90 days in doses of 62.5, 125 or 650 mg/kg to different group of animals. Significant decrease in serum cholesterol was observed (45-52%). At 90 days, percentage decrease in triglycerides varied from 14 to 36%. Compound 2 caused a marked decrease in low density lipoprotein (75-90%) whereas changes in HDL-cholesterol were not significant (Table-8 &amp; 9) 
     
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 8 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Effect of 3β-Hydroxypregna-5,16-dien-20-one (2) in Rhesus monkeys 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 S. Cholesterol 
                 S. Triglycerides 
               
               
                   
                 Days 
                 Days 
               
             
          
           
               
                 Treatment 
                 0 
                 90 
                 % Fall 
                 0 
                 60 
                 % Fall 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 Expt. I 
                 119.8 ± 16.6  
                 90.5 ± 9.0  
                 26 
                 82.0 ± 2.5  
                 62.0 ± 1.0  
                 24 
               
               
                 Control + 1% gum acacia 
               
               
                 Expt. II 2(62.5 mg/kg) 
                 156.8 ± 23.0  
                 83.3 ± 8.5  
                 47 
                 77.5 ± 7.0  
                 66.3 ± 6.9  
                 14 
               
               
                 Expt. III 2(125 mg/kg) 
                 133.3 ± 8.5  
                 65.8 ± 2.2  
                 50 
                 69.8 ± 9.9  
                 60.0 ± 2.9  
                 13 
               
               
                 Expt. IV 2(650 mg/kg) 
                 132.8  ± 6.4  
                 63.3  ± 2.3  
                 53 
                 90.5 ± 3.9  
                 58.5 ± 3.8  
                 36 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Mean ± SD values mg/dl. Each set of experiment involved 4 monkeys  
               
             
          
         
       
     
     
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 9 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Effect of β-Hydroxypregna-5,16-dien-20-one (2) on HDL-and LDL-cholesterol 
               
               
                 in Rhesus monkeys 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 HDL-Cholesterol 
                   
               
               
                   
                 Days 
                 LDL-Cholesterol 
               
             
          
           
               
                 Treatment 
                 0 
                 90 
                 % Change 
                 0 
                 90 
                 % Fall 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 Expt. 1 Control + 1% gum 
                 45.5 ± 7.4  
                 43.0 ± 0.5  
                 −6 
                 57.9 ± 16.2 
                 35.0 ± 8.8  
                 39 
               
               
                 acacia 
               
               
                 Expt. II 2(62.5 mg/kg) 
                 50.0 ± 4.5  
                 45.0 ± 2.5  
                 −8 
                 91.8 ± 27.0 
                 24.3 ± 8.0  
                 75 
               
               
                 Expt. III 2(125 mg/kg) 
                 46.3 ± 2.0  
                 50.8 ± 0.5  
                 +10 
                 63.5 ± 7.4  
                 4.6 ± 0.9 
                 90 
               
               
                 Expt. IV 2(650 mg/kg) 
                 39.3 ± 1.3  
                 41.8 ± 0.9  
                 +6 
                 72.7 ± 8.4  
                 13.1 ± 0.7  
                 82 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Mean ± SD values mg/dl. Each set of experiment involved 4 monkeys.  
               
             
          
         
       
     
     5.2 Hypoglycemic Activity 
     The compounds were tested for their hypoglycemic effects in normal, glucose loaded and streptozotocin induced diabetic rats. The experimental details of the testing of one such compound 3β-hydroxypregna-5,16-dien-20-one (2) is described below which possessed marked hypoglycemic effect in two models. (Tables 10 and 11). 
     5.2.1 Hypoglycemic Activity in Glucose Loaded Rats 
     The experiments were carried out with albino rats (Charles Foster strain) of either sex weighing 150-160 g. They were fed on laboratory diet prepared by M/s Lipton India Ltd. and maintained under 12 hr. light/dark cycle at 25±2° C. 
     The animals were divided into eight groups, each of six rats; group I was given 1% gum acacia (0.1 ml/100 g body weight) intragastrically (p.o.) and the group II were given 3β-hydroxypregna-5,16-dien-20-one (2) in 1% gum acacia. Animals of group III were given the standard antidiabetic drug, tolbutamide in the similar fashion. 2.0 g/kg glucose was given p.o. to all the rats along with the vehicle/Compound/Standard antidiabetic drug. Blood samples were taken from retroorbital plexus at periodic intervals. Glucose levels in the blood samples were measured by glucose oxidase method [Bergmeyer and Benut, 1963 cited in “Methods of Enzymatic Analysis” ed. H. Bergmeyer, Verlag Chemie, GmBH, Weinheim, Beroster, pp123, Academic press, New York]. 
                                                                                               TABLE 10                   Effect of 3β-Hydroxypregna-5,16-dien-20-one (2) and standard antidiabetic drug       on post-prandial blood glucose level after challenge with glucose                    Maximum               Blood           Blood Glucose Level   Glucose           (mg/dl)   Change            Group   0 min   30 min   60 min   90 min   120 min   (%)                    Control   40.35 ± 2.9    102.3 ± 6.11    68.91 ± 1.95    66.48 ± 2.12    50.61 ± 1.27            Compund 2 (100 mg/kg) + Glucose   42.43 ± 1.64    76.15 ± 6.07    56.06 ± 4.65    55.06 ± 2.61    49.59 ± 1.66    −18.7               (48)   (55)   (54)   (34)       Tolbutamide (100 mg/kg) + Glucose   38.15 ± 2.02    76.31 ± 6.29    27.26 ± 3.1    24.64 ± 1.92    23.07 ± 3.11    −41.7               (35)   (100)   (100)   (100)               FIG. in parenthesis indicates % inhibition compared to control Mean ± SD values mg/dl. Each set of experiment involved 6 rats.             
5.2.2 Hypoglycemic Activity in Streptozotocin Induced Hyperglycemic Rats
 
     Hyperglycemia in rats was produced by streptozotocin treatment. The animals showing blood glucose levels between 250-350 mg/dl were selected. Blood samples were collected after treatment at intervals and blood glucose levels were estimated immediately. The results showed lowering in blood glucose level within 1 hr and the maximum fall was observed at 12 hrs. 
     
       
         
               
             
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 11 
               
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                 Effect of 3β-Hydroxypregna-5,16-dien-20-one (2) and Tolbutamide on 
               
               
                 blood glucose level of streptozotocin 
               
               
                 induced diabetic rats. 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 Blood glucose level mg/dl 
               
             
          
           
               
                 Treatment 
                 0 hr 
                 1 hr 
                 2 hr 
                 3 hr 
                 4 hr 
                 5 hr 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 I Streptozotocin 
                 301 ± 7  
                 314 ± 11  
                 318 ± 12  
                 328 ± 10  
                 328 ± 15  
                 333 ± 21  
               
               
                 (50 mg/kg i.p.) 
               
               
                 II Streptozotocin 
                 274 ± 9  
                 243* ± 10  
                 231* ± 14  
                 203** ± 20   
                 183*** ± 14   
                 157*** ± 21   
               
               
                 (50 mg/kg p.o) +2   
                   
                 (11.3) 
                 (15.6) 
                 (25.9) 
                 (33.2) 
                 (42.7) 
               
               
                 (100 mg/kg p.o.) 
               
               
                 IV Streptozotocin 
                 292 ± 10  
                 218** ± 14   
                 207** ± 17   
                 202** ± 19   
                 195** ± 23   
                 183** ± 23   
               
               
                 (50 mg/kg i.p. + 
                   
                 (25.3) 
                 (29.1) 
                 (30.8) 
                 (33.2) 
                 (37.3) 
               
               
                 Tolbutamide 
               
               
                 (100 mg/kg p.o.) 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 Treatment 
                 6 hr 
                 7 hr 
                 8 hr 
                 24 hr 
               
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 I Streptozotocin 
                 347 ± 19  
                 355 ± 24  
                 340 ± 22  
                 349 ± 12  
               
               
                   
                 (50 mg/kg i.p.) 
               
               
                   
                 II Streptozotocin 
                 133*** ± 16   
                 102*** ± 9    
                 91*** ± 8   
                 128*** ± 18   
               
               
                   
                 (50 mg/kg p.o) +2   
                 (51.4) 
                 (62.7) 
                 (66.7) 
                 (52.2) 
               
               
                   
                 (100 mg/kg p.o.) 
               
               
                   
                 IV Streptozotocin 
                 174*** ± 23   
                 192** ± 29   
                 242* ± 18  
                 332 ± 26  
               
               
                   
                 (50 mg/kg i.p. + 
                 (40.4) 
                 (34.2) 
                 (17.1) 
               
               
                   
                 Tolbutamide 
               
               
                   
                 (100 mg/kg p.o.) 
               
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 Mean ± SD values mg/dl., Parenthesis shows % lowering from zero hour value. *P &lt; 0.05, **P &lt; 0.01, ***P &lt; 0.001  
               
             
          
         
       
     
     5.3. Antioxidant Activity 
     The free radical oxidative stress has been implicated in the pathogenesis of a variety of human disease conditions including atherosclerosis. Polyunsaturated fatty acids within cell membranes and lipoproteins are oxidized and resulting active species modify macrophages and bystander cells monocytes which then move to subeudothelial space, engorge cholesteryl esters and are transformed into what are known as foam cells. Group of these foam cells form atherosclerotic plaques in the intima. The antioxidant potential of compound 2 was evaluated against metal induced oxidation of LDL as well as generation of hydroxy (OH) radical. 
     In vivo experiment with cholesterol fed animals caused marked formation of lipid peroxides in serum lipoproteins. Simultaneous treatment with compound 2 caused significant reversal of the lipid peroxide levels in serum VLDL, LDL and liver in cholesterol fed animals. However gemfibrozil failed to protect the phenomenon of lipid peroxidation (Table 12). Human serum LDL was oxidized with Cu ′2  in different concentrations of test compound in 0.05 mole PBS, pH 7.4 for 16 hr at 37° C. Thiobarbituric acid reactive lipid peroxides are measured by standard procedure. Compound 2 and α-tocopherol inhibit the generation of LDL lipid peroxide in concentration dependent manner. However the gemfibrozil at tested concentrations did not inhibit the oxidative modification (Table 13). Cu ′2  induced oxidation in LDL lipids are mainly due to the free OH radical during incubation. Therefore the effect tested for generation of OH radical in vitro in nonenzymatic system of Fe ′2 , sodium ascorbate, hydrogenperoxide and deoxyribose oxidative attack of oxy radical on deoxyribose caused fragmentation and formation of dialdehyde which are spectrophotometrically measured after their reaction with thiobarbituric acid. As observed in case of oxidation of LDL by metal ion, the compound 2 inhibits the generation of OH radical in concentration dependent manner. However, the activity of 2 is of low order to that of mannitol, a selective inhibitor of OH radical (Table 14) 
     
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 12 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Effect of 3β-Hydroxypregna-5,16-dien-20-one (2) on lipid 
               
               
                 peroxidation in cholesterol fed hyperlipidemic rats 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                   
                   
                 Cholesterol + 
               
               
                 Serum/ 
                   
                   
                 Drug (25 mg/kg) 
               
             
          
           
               
                  Tissue 
                 Control 
                 Cholesterol Fed 
                 Compound 2 
                 Gemfibrozil 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Serum a 
                 675 ± 82  
                 1228 ± 130  
                 931.5 ± 51   
                 1161 ± 74  
               
               
                   
                   
                 (+82) 
                 (−24) 
                 (−5) 
               
               
                 VLDL a 
                 237 ± 25  
                 379 ± 20  
                 310 ± 15  
                 346 ± 10  
               
               
                   
                   
                 (+60) 
                 (−18) 
                 (−9) 
               
               
                 LDL a 
                 351 ± 17  
                 604 ± 24  
                 421 ± 20  
                 568 ± 62  
               
               
                   
                   
                 (+72) 
                 (−30) 
                 (−6) 
               
               
                 HDL a 
                 123 ± 13  
                 138 ± 17  
                 125 ± 10  
                 134 ± 13  
               
               
                   
                   
                 (+12) 
                 (−9)  
                 (−3) 
               
               
                 Liver b 
                 74 ± 8  
                 274 ± 28  
                 212 ± 16  
                 253 ± 26  
               
               
                   
                   
                 (+57) 
                 (−23) 
                 (−8) 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Values are mean ± SD of 6 rats; a = n mol MDA/dl, b = n mol MDA/g. Values in the parenthesis below drug treated groups are % reversal as compared with cholesterol fed rats.  
               
             
          
         
       
     
     
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 13 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Effect of 3β-Hydroxy-pregna-5,16-dien-20-one (2), 
               
               
                 gemfibrozil and α-Tocopherol on low density 
               
               
                 lipoprotein oxidation. 
               
             
          
           
               
                 Concentration 
                   
                   
                   
                   
               
               
                 (μmol/ 
                   
                 Compound 2 
                 Gemfibrozil 
                 α-Tocopherol 
               
             
          
           
               
                 ml) 
                   
                 MDA 
                 MDA 
                 Conc. (μmol/ml) 
                 MDA 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 None 
                   
                 56.5 ± 3   
                 52.0 ± 5.4  
                 None 
                   
                 47.4 ± 3.8  
               
               
                  2.5 
                 Ref. 
                 56.0 ± 5.8  
                 52.8 ± 5.7  
                 0.25 
                 Ref. 
                 47.4 ± 4.5  
               
               
                   
                 Exp. 
                 41.4 ± 1.7  
                 53.0 ± 6.0  
                   
                 Exp. 
                 44.7 ± 4.5  
               
               
                   
                   
                 (26) 
                 (−) 
                   
                   
                 (3)  
               
               
                  5.0 
                 Ref. 
                 56.4 ± 5.6  
                 50.7 ± 6.1  
                 0.5 
                 Ref. 
                 47.3 ± 4.5  
               
               
                   
                 Exp. 
                 28.7 ± 4.0  
                 48.8 ± 6.7  
                   
                 Exp. 
                 41.6 ± 4.0  
               
               
                   
                   
                 (49) 
                 (5)  
                   
                   
                 (13) 
               
               
                 10.0 
                 Ref. 
                 40.6 ± 3.7  
                 49.4 ± 5.2  
                 1.0 
                 Ref. 
                 47.4 ± 3.9  
               
               
                   
                 Exp. 
                 10.6 ± 0.5  
                 43.8 ± 4.9  
                   
                 Exp. 
                 35.0 ± 3.8  
               
               
                   
                   
                 (74) 
               
               
                 20 
                 Ref. 
                 37.2 ± 0.8  
                 49.0 ± 2.9  
                 2.0 
                 Ref 
                 47.4 ± 4.4  
               
               
                   
                 Exp. 
                 4.0 ± 0.5 
                 41.4 ± 5.0  
                   
                 Exp. 
                 24.3 ± 2.0  
               
               
                   
                   
                 (89) 
                 (16) 
                   
                   
                 (51) 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Values expressed as n mol MDA/mg protein are mean ± SD of four separate experiments. Values in the parenthesis are % inhibition.  
               
             
          
         
       
     
     
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 14 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Inhibition of Hydroxy (OH) radical formation in nonenzymatic system. 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                   
                   
                 α-Tocopherol 
               
             
          
           
               
                 Concentration 
                 Compound 2 
                 Gemfibrozil 
                 Conc. 
                   
               
               
                 (μmol/ml) 
                 (nmol MDA/hr) 
                 (nmol MDA/hr) 
                 (μmol/ml) 
                 (nmol MDA/hr) 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 None 
                 90.4 ± 3.8  
                 83.4 ± 7.5  
                 None 
                 78.2 ± 7.0  
               
               
                  5 
                 65.0 ± 5.4  
                 79.9 ± 6.8  
                 1 
                 60.4 ± 7.0  
               
               
                   
                 (28) 
                 (4)  
                   
                 (23) 
               
               
                 10 
                 52.8 ± 4.2  
                 78.5 ± 8.0  
                 2 
                 45.2 ± 3.3  
               
               
                   
                 (42) 
                 (5)  
                   
                 (42) 
               
               
                 20 
                 23.3 ± 1.8  
                 76.8 ± 7.4  
                 3 
                 32.4 ± 3.5  
               
               
                   
                 (74) 
                 (8)  
                   
                 (59) 
               
               
                 30 
                 11.7 ± 1.3  
                 76.4 ± 3.8  
                 4 
                 27.1 ± 2.8  
               
               
                   
                 (87) 
                 (8)  
                   
                 (65) 
               
               
                 40 
                 10.4 ± 2.0  
                 74.3 ± 6.3  
                 5 
                 20.9 ± 2.0  
               
               
                   
                 (88) 
                 (11) 
                   
                 (73) 
               
               
                 50 
                 9.9 ± 0.8 
                 72.4 ± 8.0  
                 — 
                 — 
               
               
                   
                 (90) 
                 (13) 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Values are mean ± SD of four separate observations. Values in the parenthesis are % inhibition.  
               
             
          
         
       
     
     5.4. Cardiac Protection 
     The underlying cause of myocardial infarction is believed to be the progressive deposition of lipids and fibrotic material into the arterial wall. These pregnadienols and pregnadienous also provided cardiac protection as assessed in isoproterneol induced myocardial necrosis in rat model, which produces myocardial infarction due to an increased blood pressure and heart rate. The protection was comparable with that of gemfibrozil as described in Table 15. 
     
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 15 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Effect of 3β-Hydroxypregna-5,16-dien-20-one(2) on serum 
               
               
                 and tissue parameters of heart necrosis at 
               
               
                 25 mg/kg (p.o.) in rats. 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 Isoproterneol 
                 Isoproterneol + Drug (25 mg/kg) 
               
               
                   
                 (85 mg/kg, p.o.) 
                 % Protection 
               
             
          
           
               
                 Parameters 
                 % Change 
                 Gemfribrozil 
                 Compound 2 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 Serum 
                   
                   
                   
               
               
                 CPK 
                 109.9 ↑ 
                 33.9 
                 35.7 
               
               
                 GOT 
                 41.6 ↑ 
                 24.9 
                 27.0 
               
               
                 GPT 
                 85.0 ↑ 
                 33.4 
                 22.7 
               
               
                 Alkaline 
                 28.8 ↑ 
                 41.2 
                 24.0 
               
               
                 Phosphatase 
               
               
                 Heart 
                   
                   
                   
               
               
                 Ca. - ATPase 
                 44.5 ↓ 
                 30.2 
                 30.2 
               
               
                 Glycogen 
                 20.2 ↓ 
                 32.1 
                 25.1 
               
               
                 Lipid peroxide 
                 65.8 ↑ 
                 69.8 
                 72.6 
               
               
                 Phospholipase 
                 216.0 ↑ 
                 28.2 
                 74.2 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
     5.5. Androgenic Activity 
     The relative affinity of a few selected compounds in the series for cytoplasmic androgenic receptors present in human breast tumour cells MCF-7 (Michigan Cancer Foundation, MCF, USA) was estimated and compared with 4,5-dihydrotestosterone (DHT). The results showed that the compounds 2,3 and 5 have no or only negligible binding affinity which therefore would be a reflection of their low androgenic effect. 
     5.6. Progestational and Antiprogestational Activity 
     The relative affinity of compounds for cytoplasmic progesterone receptors present in human tumour cells (MCF-7) were estimated and compared with 16-ethyl-21-hydroxy-19-norpregna-4-ene-3,20-dione (Org 2058). The experiments conducted revealed that the compounds 2,3 and 5 have no or only negligible binding affinity. 
     The progestational activity was also tested in vivo by Clauberg assay method. The degree of endometrial proliferation was estimated on the McPhail scale where 3′ or 4′ was considered as a full progestational effect. 3β-Hydroxypregna-5,16-dien-20-one (2) did not exhibit any activity even at 200 mg/kg dose, whereas progesterone showed, as expected marked progestational activity even at 50 mg/kg.