11Beta-Hydroxy-2'-Methyl-Pregna-1,4-Diene[17,16-D]Oxazole-3,20-Dione belongs to the oxazole family within steroidal frameworks. Researchers and industry professionals often encounter this compound in laboratories thanks to its unique mix of a steroid backbone and oxazole ring system. The combination of the hydroxy group at C11 and the methyl substitution on the oxazole bridge gives it a marked structural distinction from other steroidal derivatives. This compound often enters the conversation during pharmaceutical ingredient sourcing and chemical synthesis projects because of its complex architecture and potential as a precursor.
With a backbone that traces to the pregna-1,4-diene structure, this molecule integrates an oxazole ring fused between the 17 and 16 carbons, transforming its chemical reactivity. Its empirical formula, C23H29NO4, highlights the arrangement of carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, and oxygen atoms. At the center, the arrangement produces a semi-rigid crystal lattice, more prone to forming fine powder or solid flakes at room temperature. The molecule shows a strategic distribution of polar and non-polar moieties which deeply influences its handling, solubility, and response to solvents common in organic chemistry labs.
Experience handling this molecule always comes with a check on its physical state and purity grade. In the lab, 11Beta-Hydroxy-2'-Methyl-Pregna-1,4-Diene[17,16-D]Oxazole-3,20-Dione usually appears as off-white to pale yellow crystals, sometimes as fine powder, less commonly as compact flakes. The physical consistency signals purity grades. Higher purity brings pronounced crystalline characteristics. Density measures close to 1.22 g/cm3, and its melting range lands between 215°C to 225°C, matching what’s observed in structurally similar corticosteroid derivatives. Bulk shipments seldom appear as pearls or liquid unless processed in solution for specialized use.
Working with this substance often requires attention to its stability. Its carbonyl groups at C3 and C20 can participate in mild hydrogen bonding, shaping reactivity profiles in multi-step syntheses. Steroidal rings with conjugated diene segments create light sensitivity issues, so labs often avoid prolonged UV exposure. In solution, solubility drops in water, but common organic solvents like ethanol, methanol, chloroform, and dichloromethane dissolve the substance well. Flasks containing its solutions must always be labeled for compound safety, reflecting regulatory requirements under chemical handling guidelines.
Global logistics for this chemical route through regulatory checkpoints, each item assigned a Harmonized System (HS) Code for customs tracking. Customs often codes this class under HS Code 29372900, encapsulating heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen hetero-atoms. Shipping, storage, and legal import depend heavily on compliance data and transparent reporting, owing to regular scrutiny of raw materials that might show up in pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, or research-grade chemical orders.
My experience in chemical storage underscores the need for rigorous safety plans. While not explosively reactive, the compound bears harmful risk profiles, especially in gram- or kilogram-scale settings. Inhalation of airborne powder may induce respiratory irritation, so standard PPE — masks, goggles, nitrile gloves — always factor into safe handling. National health agencies rank this compound under "Potentially Hazardous" categories due to possible bioactivity and chemical reactivity. Spills demand immediate attention with non-reactive absorbents, and every lab using this material keeps MSDS sheets at station. As with many similar raw materials, controlled environment prevents accidental degradation or mixing with incompatible reagents.
Manufacturers and research facilities source 11Beta-Hydroxy-2'-Methyl-Pregna-1,4-Diene[17,16-D]Oxazole-3,20-Dione mainly for pharmaceutical R&D. The compound’s core structure resembles starting intermediates for corticosteroid and anti-inflammatory drug synthesis. As a result, supply chains often regulate this material for both quality and potential diversion concerns. On the research bench, its chemical behavior invites application in receptor binding studies and as a seed molecule for analog design. Raw materials suppliers work closely with regulatory agencies, detailing molecular characteristics, batch purity, and chain-of-custody.
As more chemical discoveries branch out from complex steroids like this one, strong demand keeps pushing for better transparency, traceability, and ethical sourcing. Facts on molecular identity, risk profile, and handling feed trust across the entire supply network — from first-stage chemical production through to finished pharmaceutical compounds. In my observation, better harmonization of MSDS data, transparent procurement, and rigorous documentation help stem illicit use, uphold user safety, and build lasting confidence in compliant suppliers. Scientific teams do well to adopt digital tracking for raw material lots, invest in ongoing staff training, and choose partners with a robust history of regulatory compliance.