Stereoselective synthesis of C/D/E rings in steroids containing E (lactone) ring. Synthesis of (±)-1-(1'-hydroxyethyl)-7,7a-dihydro-5(6H)-indanone-7a-carboxylic acid-7a,1'-lactone

The title compound, a potential intermediate for the synthesis of steroids containing E (lactone) ring, was synthesized stereoselectively using the acid catalyzed homoconjugate addition of methanol to methyl 6-methyl-2-oxobicyclo[3.1.0]hexane-1-carboxylate in four steps.