| abstract |
This invention provides a novel class of vitamin D-related compounds, namely the 1 alpha -hydroxy-19-nor-vitamin D analogs, as well as a general method for their chemical synthesis. The compounds exhibit pronounced activity in arresting the proliferation of undifferentiated cells, including malignant cells, and in inducing their differentiation, and thus represent novel therapeutic agents for the treatment of malignant and other diseases characterized by the proliferative growth of undifferentiated cells. Formulations for therapeutic use and treatment methods are also provided. The 19-nor analogs useful herein are of the general formula <IMAGE> where X1 and X2 each hydrogen, acyl, alkylisilyl or alkoxyalkyl, and where R is any of the typical side chains known for vitamin D type compounds. |