Andrew D. Abell, Martin Brandt, Mark A. Levy
and Dennis A. Holt![[hair space]](https://www.rsc.org/images/entities/char_200a.gif)
The synthesis and in vitro inhibitory studies against human types 1 and 2 steroid 5α-reductase of a series of 9,10-dihydrophenanthrene-2-carboxylic acids is reported. A (4-carboxy)phenyl substituent at C-7 provides a compound with activity against both isozymes. The structural features responsible for activity are discussed.