The present invention relates to compounds capable of acting as androgen receptor antagonists, pharmaceutical formulations containing the same, and methods of use thereof. Such uses include, but are not limited to, use as antitumor agents, particularly for the treatment of cancers such as colon, skin and prostate cancer and to induce androgen receptor antagonist activity in a subject afflicted with an androgen-related affliction. Examples of androgen-related afflictions include, but are not limited to, baldness, hirsutism, behavioral disorders, acne, and uninhibited spermatogenesis wherein inhibition of spermatogenesis is so desired.
The present invention relates to improved methods for achieving the synthesis of 1,7-diaryl-1,6-heptadiene-3,5-diones, and in particular curcumin and its analogues. The invention provides a process for synthesizing such compounds in substantial yield and purity using environmentally benign processes and materials. The invention also relates to the use of such synthesized products in the treatment of Alzheimer's Disease and other diseases.
