Synthesis of pyrogallolestrogens (2,3,4-trihydroxy-1,3,5(10)-estratrienes) and their methyl ethers

The preparation of 2,4-dihydroxyestrone, 2,4-dihydroxyestradiol-17beta and their methyl ethers (14 compounds) is described. The structures were established by nuclear magnetic resonance, infrared and mass spectra as well as by elemental analyses, microchemical reactions, alternative synthetic routes and by their chromatographic properties.