Intramolecular cyclization of steroidal semicarbazones to pyrazoles using Vilsmeier reagent

The preparation of hitherto unknown steroidal heterocycles containing pyrazole fused to 6,7-position of the steroidal nucleus is described. These heterocycles were prepared by the action of Vilsmeier reagent with steroidal semicarbazones in DMF. The structure of the compounds has been established on the basis of their elemental analysis and spectral data. A general mechanistic scheme for these reactions is also suggested based on current and previous results.