Preface

Steroids represent a fundamental class of biomolecules with diverse roles and functions. In the human body, steroids act as structural constituents of the cell membrane, signaling molecules controlling metabolism, hormones inducing sexual functions, regulators of electrolyte balance of body fluids, immunomodulatos etc. Steroids also have key roles in nervous system and many disorders including malignancies like prostate cancer, breast cancer etc. Besides immense potential of regulating key biological processes, steroids also have tremendous medicinal potential. Typically steroids are considered as potent immunomodulators as they work by decreasing inflammation and suppressing the immune system. However, latest research has shown that these molecules hold promise against numerous disorders including cardiovascular conditions, cancer, inflammation, autoimmune disorders etc. Besides, there are number of reported investigations where a non-steroidal pharmacophore has been attached to a steroidal framework in order that the later may provide lipid solubility, receptor selectivity or membrane binding properties.

The proposed book titled "Steroids and their Medicinal Potential" contains chapters covering the classification, distribution, biosynthesis, chemical synthesis and semi-synthesis of different steroids. The medicinal potential of each class been exhaustively discussed in different chapters. The latest advances and developments in steroid based drug discovery have been discussed thoroughly and care has been taken to make it as a useful resource for the readers. Few chapters have been dedicated to anabolic steroids and their abuse. There is, till date, no such book available that provides a comprehensive coverage of all aspects of steroid chemistry, biochemistry, medicinal potential, drug discovery and advances in target binding interactions of steroid based drugs. The present volume is the first volume of the book series and its contents are of introductory nature wherein the introduction and biological significance of Steroids has been discussed in an elaborative manner. Topics like introduction to steroids, classification, biosynthesis, semi-synthesis and total synthesis in addition to sources of steroids, characterization and breakthroughs in steroid research have also been included and discussed thoroughly from academic and research perspective. We hope the present book shall be an indispensible learning resource for students, teachers and researchers, both in academia and industry.