Synthesis and plant growth promoting activity of polyhydroxylated ketones bearing the 5α-hydroxy-6-oxo moiety and cholestane side chain

► Analogs of brassinosteroids were prepared from the inexpensive cholesterol acetate. ► One-pot synthesis of 3β-acetoxy-Δ5-steroids. ► 5α-Hydroxy-6-oxo steroids with intact cholestane side chain promote plant growth.