The following specification claims priority from Indian Patent Application bearing Number 121/CHE/2009 dated Jan 19, 2009

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is related to an Improved process for the preparation of prostaglandin and prostaglandin analogues, particularly PGF20derivatives.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Prostaglandin analogs represent the most potent therapeutic agents in the clinical management of ocular hypertension and glaucoma.

Prostaglandins are generally characterized by the substituents on the cyclopentyl ring. The PGF2α prostaglandins and prostaglandin analogues generally have two hydroxyl groups in a Cis configuration relative to the cyclopentane ring, and two side chains in a trans configuration relative to each other, each side chain having one double bond. Analogues of PGF20 can have a different number of double bonds in the side chains, and the substituents along the side chains may vary. Additionally, in some PGF2α analogues, the side chain carboxylic acid group may be esterified.

Prostaglandin analogues based on PGF20 for use in the treatment of glaucoma and ocular hypertension are described in, for example, European patent number 0364 417 B1. The procedures for the synthesis of PGF20 analogues described therein start from an advanced-stage intermediate, 16-phenyl-17,18,19,20-trinor PGF20, or the tetranor homologue thereof The isopropyl ester of PGF20 commonly called as Latanoprost [13,14-dihydro-15(R)-17-phenyl-1B,19,20-trinor-PGF2a-isopropyl], has been shown to have significantly greater hypotensive potency, useful in the reduction of elevated intra-ocular pressure in patients with open angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension.
The other marketed prostaglandin analogs used to reduce elevated intraocular pressure apart from latanoprost (Xalatan) Include travoprost (Travatan) and bimatoprost (Lumigan) etc.

A variety of methods of synthesizing PGF2a analogs are known and are disclosed in for e.g. US 7166730, US 6403649, EP 1721894, US 7157590, US 5698733, US7163959, US 5359095, US 6927300, WO Q2/096868, WO 02/090324, Chem. Rev.(1993, vol. 93, pages 1533-1564), Chinese journal of medicinal chemistry (1998, vol. 36, pages 213-217), B. Resul etal., Journal of Medicinal Chemistry., 1993, 36, 243)

A typical synthesis of prostaglandin derivative is disclosed in WO 93/00329 which is summarized below:

It is well known that by using silylating agents for the protection of hydroxyl groups, the reactions are clean and yields are quantitative.

The processes disclosed herein above have the below disadvantages
i. Lot of impurities were formed when unprotected hydroxyl groups are used and it requires the purification of the intermediates at almost every stage of synthesis
which leads to very low yields and time consuming

ii. Conventional protecting agents for hydroxyl groups again resulted in some
difficulties in the subsequent steps

iii. The use of separate protecting groups for the two hydroxyl groups leads to an
additional step with different reagent

iv. Deprotection may lead to problems with different protecting groups, wherein both the hydroxyl groups may not be deprotected at the same time.

In view of the processes disclosed herein above and the problems associated therewith, it is an object of the present invention is to provide an alternative process for the synthesis of PGF20 and analogues thereof, particularly Latanoprost and Bimatoprost.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

The main object of the present invention is related to an improved process for the preparation of prostaglandin and prostaglandin analogues.

Another object of the present invention is related to the synthesis of PGF20 analogues such as latanoprost and bimatoprost,

Yet another object of the present invention is related to the synthesis of a bis[tert-butyl
dimethylsilyloxy] protected carboxylic acid intermediate for the preparation of Latanoprost and Bimatoprost.

Yet another object of the present invention is to prepare Latanoprost and Bimatoprost by the deprotection of bis[tert-butyl dimethylsilyloxy] protected carboxylic acid intermediate.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is related to an improved process for the preparation of prostaglandin and prostaglandin analogues.

The prostaglandin derivatives of the present invention are represented by formula 1A

wherein
R' represents COOH, ester groups such as COOAlk wherein Alk independently represent methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl and the like, amides such as CONHAlk wherein Alk independently represent methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl and the like.

R" represents optionally substituted aryl such as phenyl, optionally substituted arylalkyl such as benzyl, optionally substituted aryloxy such as phenoxy wherein the said aryl. arylalkyi or aryloxy groups may be substituted with one or more groups independently selected from hydroxy, halides such as F, CI, Br or I, lower alkyl such as methyl, ethyl or alkyl halides such as CH2F, CHF2, CF3 and the like, The dotted bond (-----) represents an optional bond.

According to one aspect, the present invention provides a process for the preparation of Latanoprost comprising the steps of; (a) oxidizing protected primary alcohol ( LTN~A) to aldehyde (LTN-B), (b) treating aldehyde (LTN-B) with triphenyl-4(phenyl-2-oxobutyl)phosphonium bromide (SC-1) to obtain enone (LTN - C). (c) treating enone (LTN-C) with (-) DIP chloride to obtain hydroxyl analogue (LTN-D), (d) hydrogenating the hydroxyl analogue (LTN-D) in the presence of a catalyst to obtain LTN-E, (e) deprotecting LTN-E to obtain the lactone (LTN-F), (f) treating lactone (LTN-F) with tert-butyldimethylsilyl chloride to obtain diprotected lactone (LTNG), (g) reducing di-protected lactone (LTN-G) to obtain di-protected lactol (LTN-H), (h) reacting (LTN-H) with 4-carboxy butyl triphenyl phosphonium bromide to obtain diprotected lactol (LTN-I), (i) treating diprotected lactol (LTN-I) with isopropyl bromide to obtain an ester (LTN-J), (j) deprotecting the ester derivative (LTN-J) to obtain latanoprost.

According to another aspect, the present invention provides a process for the preparation of Bimatoprost comprising the steps of; (a) oxidizing protected primary alcohol to aldehyde (BPT -1), (b) treating aldehyde (BPT-1) with triphenyl-4(phenyl-2-oxobutyl)phosphonium bromide (SC-1) to obtain enone (BPT-2), (c) treating enone {BPT-2) with (-) DIP chloride to obtain hydroxyl analogue {BPT-3), (d) deprotecting {BPT-3) to obtain lactone derivative (BPT-4), (e) treating lactone derivative (BPT-4) with tert-Butyl Dimethyl silyl chloride to obtain diprotected lactone derivative (BPT-5), (f) reducing di-protected lactone (BPT -5) into di¬protected lactol (BPT-6), (g) treating di-protected lactol (BPT -6) with 4-carboxy butyl triphenyl phosphonium bromideto obtain the diprotected acid derivative (BPT-7), (h) esterifying the diprotected acid derivative (BPT-7) to obtain ester derivative (BPT-8), (i) converting the ester derivative (BPT-8) into corresponding amide derivative (BPT-9), (j) deprotecting the amide derivative {BPT-9) to obtain bimatoprost.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Fig 1 shows an X-ray Diffraction diagram of Bimatoprost.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is related to an improved process for the preparation of prostaglandin and prostaglandin analogues.

In one embodiment, the present invention relates to an improved process for the preparation of prostaglandins and prostaglandin analogues.
In another embodiment, the present invention relates to the synthesis of PGF2a analogues such as latanoprost and bimatoprost.

In yet another embodiment, the present invention encompasses an improved process for the preparation of latanoprost as summarized in scheme 1.

In yet another embodiment the present invention provides a process for the preparation of latanoprost comprising the steps of;

a) oxidizing protected primary alcohol ( LTN-A) to aldehyde {LTN-B),

b) treating aldehyde (LTN-B) with triphenyl-4(phenyl-2-oxobutyl)phosphonlum bromide (SC-1) in the presence of solvent to obtain enone (LTN - C),

c) treating enone (LTN-C) with (-) DIP chloride in the presence of a solvent to obtain hydroxyl analogue (LTN-D),

d) hydrogenating the hydroxyl analogue (LTN-D) In the presence of a catalyst, base and solvent to obtain LTN-E,

e) deprotecting LTN-E in the presence of a base and solvent to obtain the lactone (LTN-F),

f) treating lactone (LTN-F) witti tert-butyldimethylsllyl chloride in the presence of an organic base and solvent to obtain diprotected lactone (LTN-G),

g) reducing di-protected lactone (LTN-G) in the presence of solvent to obtain di¬
protected lactol (LTN-H),

h) reacting (LTN-H) with 4-carboxy butyl triphenyl phosphonium bromide in the presence of a base and a solvent to obtain diprotected lactol (LTN-I), i) esterifying the diprotected lactol (LTN-I) with isopropyl bromide In the presence of base to obtain an ester (LTN-J), and j) deprotecting the ester derivative (LTN-J) to obtain latanoprost.
In yet another embodiment the present invention encompasses an improved process for the preparation of Bimatoprost as summarized in scheme 2.


In yet another embodiment the present invention provides a process for the preparation of bimatoprost comprising the steps of;

a) oxidizing protected primary alcohoi to aidehyde (BPT -1),

b) treating aldehyde (BPT-1) with triphenyl-4(phenyl-2-oxobutyl)phosphonium bromide (SC-1) to obtain enone (BPT - 2),

c) treating enone (BPT-2) with (-) DIP chloride in the presence of soivent to obtain hydroxyl analogue (BPT-3),

d) deprotecting (BPT-3) in the presence of a base and a solvent to obtain iactone derivative (BPT-4),

e) treating lactone derivative (BPT-4) with tert-Butyl Dimethyl silyi chloride in the presence of a soivent to obtain diprotected iactone derivative (BPT-5),

f) reducing di-protected iactone (BPT -5) in the presence of reducing agent, solvent into di-protected iactoi (BPT-6),

g) treating di-protected Iactoi (BPT -6) with 4-carboxy butyl triphenyi phosphonium bromide in the presence of a base, solvent to obtain the diprotected acid
derivative (BPT-7),

h) esterifying the diprotected acid derivative (BPT-7) in the presence of base to
obtain ester derivative (BPT-8),

i) reacting the ester derivative (BPT-8) into corresponding amide derivative (BPT-9),
and

j) deprotecting the amide derivative (BPT-9) to obtain bimatoprost.

According to the present invention, the oxidizing agents used in the oxidation of the protected primary alcohol to aldehyde are selected from a combination of dimethyl sulfoxide with dicyciohexylcarbodiimide. The oxidation reaction is carried out in the presence of an acid selected from phosphoric acid and in a solvent selected from dimethoxy ethane or toluene or mixtures thereof.

The reaction of aldehyde with triphenyl-4(phenyl-2-oxobutyl)phosphonium bromide (SC-1) is carried out in the presence of solvent selected from dichloromethane or toluene or mixtures thereof.

The solvent used in reaction of enone with (-) DIP chloride [(-)-Diisopinocampheyl chloroboranel is selected from tetrahydrofuran, dichloromethane or toluene or mixtures thereof.

The reduction of double bond is carried out using a cataiyst seiected from palladium on carbon, platinum or nickel, preferably palladium on carbon. Reduction reaction is carried out in the presence of base and solvent, base is selected from sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide, solvent is selected from ethanol, methanol, isopropanol, n-butanoi or mixtures thereof.

The aroyl deprotection is carried out in presence of a base and solvent selected from potassium carbonate, sodium carbonate, cesium carbonate, potassium bicarbonate, sodium bicarbonate. The solvent Is selected from ethanol, methanol, Isopropanol, n-butanol or mixtures thereof.

The diol protection is carried out using tert-butyldlmethylsllyl chloride in the presence of a base and solvent. The base is selected from imidazole, triethylamine, diisopropylethylamine or tributylamine. Solvent group is from polar aprotic solvents such as tetrahydrofuran or dimethylsulfoxide, or chlorinated solvents such as dichloromethane, chloroform, 1,2-dichloroethane.

The reduction of lactone to lactol is carried out using diisobutyl aluminium hydride in the presence of solvent selected from toluene, tetrahydrofuran, diethyl ether or dichloromethane, or mixtures thereof.

The Wittig reaction of di-protected lactol with 4-carboxy butyl triphenyl phosphonium bromide in the presence of base. The base is selected from butyl lithium, sodium amide, sodium hydride, sodium methoxide, sodium ethoxide, potassium tert-butoxide or potassium ethoxide, preferably potassium tert-butoxide is used. The solvent used for the Wittig reaction is selected from tetrahydrofuran, toluene, dichloromethane or mixtures thereof.

The esterification of the carboxylic acid derivative (LTN-I) is carried out with isopropyl bromide to get the ester derivative (LTN-J) in the presence of a base selected from cesium carbonate, potassium carbonate, sodium carbonate, potassium bicarbonate, sodium bicarbonate, preferably cesium carbonate. The solvent for the esterification reaction is selected from dimethyl formamide, dichloromethane, isopropanol, acetonitrile, tetrahydrofuran, acetone, methyl ethyl ketone or mixtures thereof.

The esterification of carboxylic acid derivative {BPT-7) is carried out with methyl Iodide In the presence of base and solvent to get the ester derivative (BPT-8). The base is selected from cesium carbonate, potassium carbonate, sodium carbonate, potassium bicarbonate , sodium bicarbonate, preferabiy cesium carbonate. The solvent for the esterification reaction is selected from dimethyl formamide, dichloromethane, isopropanol, acetonltrile, tetrahydrofuran, acetone, methyl ethyl ketone or mixtures thereof.
The amidiflcation of the ester (BPT-8) Is carried out by using ethyiamine gas in presence of solvent to get the diprotected BImatoprost (BPT-9). Solvent Is selected from methanol, ethanol or mixtures thereof;

The final hydrolysis and the silyl group deprotectlon (for both LTN-J and BPT-9) is carried out in the presence of an acid selected from aqueous hydrochloric acid or aqueous sulfuric acid in the presence of a solvent selected from isopropanol, isobutanol, n-propanol, n-butanol, ethanol or methanol mixtures thereof.

According to the present invention the acid used herein for deprotection is selected from aq. hydrochloric acid or aq. sulfuric acid. The solvents used herein are selected from methanol, ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, n-butanol or n-propanol. The reaction is performed at 25°C to 30°C, more preferably at 25°C to SCC.

In yet another embodiment, the present invention provides a process for the purification of Bimatoprost comprising the steps of;

a) dissolving Bimatoprost in a soivent,
b) adding of an antisolvent, and
c) isolating Bimatoprost.

According to the present invention, the solvent is selected from chlorinated solvents like dichloromethane, chloroform, 1,2-dlchloroethane, carbon tetrachloride, or mixtures thereof. The resulting solution Is passed through a micron filter, like hyflow bed or silica gel bed. The anti-solvent Is selected from diisopropyl ether and diethyl ether, preferably diisopropyl ether. The product may be isolated by the conventional techniques of filtration or centrifugation.

In yet another embodiment, the present invention provides a process for the preparation of triphenyl-4(phenyl-2-oxobutyl) phosphonium bromide (SC-1) as shown below

In yet another embodiment, the present Invention provides a process for the preparation of triphenyl-4{phenyl-2-oxobutyl) phosphonium bromide (SC-1), comprising the steps of;

a) treating benzyl acetone with bromine to obtain the bromo derivative.
b) treating the bromo derivative with trjphenyl phosphlne In a solvent to get triphenyl-4(phenyl-2- oxo butyl)phosphonium bromide.

According to the present invention benzyl acetone is reacted with alcoholic bromine solution In the presence of a solvent selected from methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, n-propanol or mixtures thereof.

The reaction of the bromo derivative with triphenyl phosphlne to obtain triphenyl- 4(phenyl-2-oxobutyOphosphonium bromide Is performed in a solvent selected from toluene, tetrahydrofuran, diethyl ether or mixtures thereof.

The major advantages of the present invention are summarized below:

i. Bromobenzyl acetone is lachrymatory and hence, has not been isoiated,
ii. Addition of triphenyi-4{phenyl-2-oxobutyl)phosphonium bromide without isoiating bromo benzyl acetone thus leading to very higli yield,
iii. Protection of both the hydroxy groups with tert-ButyidimethylsiiyI chloride gives quantitative yields which are equivalent to theoretical yields,
iv. Completion of the reaction in less than 2 hours using tert-Butyldimethylsilyl
chloride without the formation of impurities,
V. DIBAL reaction is either incomplete or forms more impurities when both the
hydroxyl groups are unprotected or even one hydroxyl group is protected. When
both the hydroxyl groups were protected with tert-Butyl Dimethyl silyl chloride, the DIBAL reaction proceeds smoothly (with no formation of impurities) within 60-90 minutes with better yield and quality of product,
vi. The pure product obtained after DIBAL reaction leads to the comparatively pure
products obtained in the subsequent steps,

vii. Use of aqueous ethyl amine solution, leads to incomplete reaction even after 80
hours whereas reaction in non-aqueous medium (by passing ethyl amine gas)
leads to clean reaction and completion within 65-70 hours.

The invention is further illustrated by the following non-limiting examples.

EXAMPLES

Preparation of common intermediate: (1S, 5R, GR, 7R)-6-[ (3S)-3-hydroxyl-5-phenyl-1 E-pentenyi)-7-[ (4-phenyl benzoyl)oxy]-2-oxabicyclo [3.3.0] octane -3-one Step-1: Preparation of TrlphenyM(phenyl-2-Oxo butyl) phosphonium bromide

A) In a one litre round bottom flask fitted with an overhead stirrer, thermo pocket and dropping funnel was charged methanol (270ml) and benzyl acetone (100g) at 20 to 30°C. Bromine solution (118.8 g bromine dissolved in 270 ml methanol) was added during 60 to 90 minutes maintaining internal temperature at 7 to10°C. The reaction mass was maintained at same temperature for 2 to 4 hours and checked HPLC for completion of reaction. D.M. water (674 ml) was added at 7 to 10^C. The temperature was raised to 20 to 30° C and maintained for 12 hours at the same temperature. The organic layer was separated. The upper aqueous layer was extracted with dichloromethane (270ml) and combined with the organic layer. Dichloromethane was distilled out completely under reduced pressure to obtain viscous residue (140-150 g) which was dissolved in 300 ml toluene.

B) Toluene (300ml) and triphenyl phosphine (167.5) was charged at 20 to 30°C into a 2 litre round bottom flask equipped with an overhead stirrer, thermo pocket and dropping funnel. The toluene solution as obtained in step 1A was added at 20 to 30"c. The reaction mass was maintained at the same temperature for about 2 to 4 hours and checked HPLC for completion of reaction. The solid was filtered and washed with toluene (150ml). The wet material obtained was taken in a flask and acetone (500ml) was charged into it and stirred for 2 hours at 20 to 30''C. The product was filtered and washed with acetone (100ml). The wet material was dried under vacuum at 40 to 45°C for 5 to 8 hours to obtain the title compound (200-220 g).

Step-2: Preparation of(1 S,5R,6R,7R)-6-Oxo-5-phenyl-1 E-pentenyl)-7-[(phenylbenzoyl)oxy]-2-oxabicyclo[3.3.0] octane-3-one.
Part-A): Preparation of Side chain Carbanion
2.9 g of potassium hydroxide was dissolved in 40 ml water at 20 to 30°C into which triphenyl-4(phenyl-2-oxobutyl)phosphonium bromide (16.5g) was charged along with toluene 77.5 ml) and dichloromethane (33ml) at 20 to 30°C. The reaction mass was maintained under stirring for 3 hours at 20 to 30°C, Sodium chloride (1.6 g) was added and further stirred for 15 minutes. Organic layer was separated and washed with bhne solution. The solvent was distilled out completely under vacuum and further residue was dissolved in dichloromethane (30 ml) to get clear solution.

Part-B): Preparation of Corey aldehyde from Corey lactone.
Dimethoxy ethane (60ml) was charged into Corey lactone (10 g) at 25 to 30°c in a 250 ml four neck round bottom flask equipped with mechanical stirrer and dropping funnel. The suspension was stirred for 10 minutes, charged dicyclohexyl carbodiimide (23.3) and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) (17.75 g) at 25 to 30^C. The reaction mass was cooled to 20 to 22°C and phosphoric acid was added (1.65g). The reaction mixture was maintained at 20 to 22° C for about 20 to 30 minutes. The temperature was raised to 25 to 30°C. After completion of reaction, the unwanted dicyclohexyl urea was filtered and washed with dimethoxy ethane (20 ml). The filtrate contains Corey aldehyde.

Part C: Preparation of (1S,SR,6R,7R )-6-oxo-S-phenyl-1E-Penten) -7-[ (phenyl benzoyl) oxy]-2-oxabicycio [3.3.0] octane -3-one.
The filtrate (Corey aldehyde) was taken in a separate flask and slowly the reaction mass was added from Step 2(B) at 26 to 30°c. The reaction mass was maintained at 25 to 30°C for one hour. Raised the temperature to 35 to 40°C and stirred for 2 to 3 hours till reaction completes.

The reaction mass was cooled to 18 to 20°0 and dilute HCI (2.5 ml cone. HCL diluted in 17.5 ml water) was added to it, The reaction mass was stirred for 15 to 20 minutes, filtered, and the organic layer was separated. The organic layer was washed twice with water (2X50 ml). The solvent was distilled out completely under vacuum and the residue was charged with ethanol (50 ml). The temperature was raised to 40 to A5°C and stirred for 15 minutes to get clear solution. The solution was gradually cooled to 20°C and further to 0 to 5°C. The stirring was continued for 2 hours at 0 to 5°C followed by filtration and washing with 20 ml cold ethanol. 7-8 g of the title compound was obtained.(HPLC purity: > 98%)

Step-3: Preparation of (IS, 5R, 6R, 7R)-6-[ (3S)-3- hydroxyI-5-phenyME-pentBnyl)-7-[ (4-phenyl benzoyl)oxy]-2-oxabicycto [3.3.0] octane -3-one.
Charged (-) DIP chloride ( 40 gm 50 % solution ) to 250 ml round bottom flask fitted with overhead stirrer, thermo pocket and a dropping funnel at 25 to 30°C . The reaction mass was cooled to -20 to -25°C. 10 g (1 S,5R,6R,7R)-6^oxo-5-phenyl-1 E-pentenyl)-7-[(phenylbenzoyl)oxy]-2-oxabicyclo[3.3.0]octane-3-one in 50 ml tetrahydrofuran was slowly added for 45 to 60 minutes at -20 to 25°C. Stirring was continued at -20 to -25°C for 5 to 8 hours. After completion of reaction, methanol (40 ml) was added at -20 to -25°C. The temperature was raised to - 20 to 30°C and stirred for 60 minutes. The solvents were distilled out completely under vacuum at 40 to 45X. Dichloromethane (50ml) was added at 25°C and stirred to get clear solution. The solution was washed with ammonium chloride solution (3 x 60ml) and finally with brine solution (50 ml), heated to reflux (65°C) for 2 to 3 hours. The reaction mass was cooled to 25 to 30X and maintained for 8 to 10 hours. It was further cooled to 0 to 5°C and stirred for 2 hours at 0 to 5°C. The solid was filtered and washed with 10 ml of cold methanol to get 5-6 g of the title compound. (HPLC purity: 99%, Chiral purity: 97-99.5%)

Step-3A: Preparation of (1S, 5R, 6R, 7R)-6-[ (3S)-3- hydroxyl-5-phenyl-1E-pentenyl)-7-[ (4-phenyl benzoyl)oxy]-2-oxablcyclo [3.3.0] octane 3-one.
Charged (-) DIP chloride ( 55.4 gm 50 % solution ) to 250 ml round bottom flask fitted with overhead stirrer, thermo pocket and a dropping funnel at 25-30°C . Cooled the reaction mass -30 to -35°C Slowly added 10 g 1S,5R,6R,7R )-6-oxo-5-ph6nyl-1E-pentenyl)-7-[ (phenyl benzoyl)oxy]-2-oxabicyclo [3.3.01 octane -3-one in 50 ml THF for 45-60 minutes at -30 to -35°C. Maintained under stirring at -30 to -35° C for 5- 8 hours. After completion of reaction, added acetone (35 ml) maintaining temperature -30 to 35°C. Raised temperature to 0-5°C and stirred 10-12 hours at 0-5°C. Adjust pH to 5-7 with sodium hydroxide solution. Separate the layer and aqueous layer was extracted with dichloromethane. Combined organic layer was washed with water fallowed by brine solution. Distilled out solvents completely u/v at 35°C. The reaction mass was cooled to 20-25°C and charged n-hexane (100 ml). Maintain for 12 hours at 20-25X. Further cooled reaction mass to 0-5°C and maintained for 2 hours. Filtered crude product was stirred in MDC (80 ml) and undissolved material (salts) was filtered. Taken filtrate and distilled out MDC u/v. To the viscous residue charged n-hexane and maintained for 2-3 hours at 20-25°C. Further cooled to 0-5X and maintain for 2 hours at 0-5°C. Filter the product and washed with n-hexane. Dried at 45°C to get 7-9 g title compound. Note; The product was crystallized in a mixture of methanol and diisopropyl ether.

Example 1: Preparation of Latanoprost
Stop 1: Preparation of 1S,5R,6R,7R)-6-[(3R)-3-Hydroxy-5-phenyl-1pentyl)-7-(4- phenyl benzoyl)axy}-2-oxablcyclo[3.3.0]octan-3-one
1N sodium hydroxide (12.5 ml), ethanol (300 ml), 5% Palladium on carbon (5g) and the product obtained in step 3 (25 g) were charged into autoclave vessel at 20 to 30°C. The reaction mixture was stirred at 25 to 30°C under hydrogen pressure (4-5 kg) till reaction is complete (5 to 8 hours). After completion of reaction, the unreacted catalyst was filtered off and washed with ethanol. Ethanol was distilled out completely under vacuum at 40 to 45°C. Ethyl acetate (250 ml) and IN hydrochloric acid (12.5 ml) were added to the residue at 25 to 30°C, stirred for 20 minutes followed by the separation of ethyl acetate layer. The aqueous phase was extracted twice with ethyl acetate. The combined ethyl acetate layers were washed with brine solution (100 ml). Ethyl acetate was distilled out completely under vacuum to obtain viscous residue (-24 g) which was proceeded to next step without purification (HPLC purity >97%)

Step 2: Preparation of lS,5R,GR,7R)-6-[(3R)-3-Hydroxy-5-phenyl-1-pentyl)-7-(S)-hydroxy-2-axabicyclo[3.3.0] octan-3-one
To a solution of compound obtained in step 1 of example-1 (25 g) in methanol (250 ml) was added potassium carbonate (4.65 g) at 20 to 30°C. The reaction mixture was stirring at 20 to 30°C for 5 to 7 hours. After the completion of the reaction, methanol was distilled out completely under vacuum at 40 to 45°C. 1N hydrochloric acid (320 ml) was charged along with ethyl acetate (250 ml) and stirred for 30 minutes at 20 to 30°C. The organic layer was separated and the aqueous layer was extracted with ethyl acetate (250 ml). The combined organic layer was distilled out under vacuum at 40 to 45°C to remove ethyl acetate completely. The residue thus obtained was separated by column chromatography to obtained 13.5 to 15 g title compound as viscous oil (HPLC purity; 99%)

step 3: Preparation of 1 S,5R,6R,7R)-6-[{3S)dlmethyltert-butylsilyloxy-5-phonyM -pentyl)(7S)dimethyltert-butyl8ilyloxy-2-oxabicyclo[3.3.0]octan-3-one
To a 500 ml round bottom flask fitted with a mechanical stirrer and thermo pocket, was charged tetrahydrofuran (170 ml) and (1S,5R,6R,7R)'6-[{3R)-3-Hydroxy-5-pheny!-1pentyl)-7-(S)-hydroxy-2-oxabicyclo[3.3.01octan-3-one (17 g) was added at 25 to 30°C. The reaction mixture was stirred for 10 minutes and imidazole (22.9 g) was added to It followed by tert-Butyldimethylsilyl chloride (33.6 g) at 25 to 3°C. The reaction mixture was heated at 65 to 70°C for 60 to 90 minutes for completion of reaction. The reaction mass was cooled to 40 to 45°C and tetrahydrofuran was distilled out completely under vacuum. Dichloromethane (170 ml) was charged at 25 to SCC and stirred for 10 minutes to get the clear solution. The reaction mass was washed with 10 % citric acid (50 ml). The reaction mass was filtered through filter cloth and solvent was distilled out completely under vacuum at 40 to 45°C. Methyl tert-Butylether (MTBE) (50 ml) was charged to the residue and stirred for 15 minutes to get clear solution. MTBE was distilled out completely under vacuum at 40 to 45°C to get 27-29 g of title compound as a white semi solid (HPLC purity 96 - 97%)

Step 4: Preparation of 1Sp5R,6R,7R)-6-[(3R)dlmethyl tart-butyl8ilyloxy-5-phenyl-1-pentyl) (7S) dimethyl t.butyl sllyloxy -2-oxablcyclo[3.3.0] octan-3-ol
Toluene (320 ml) was charged into the compound Isolated in step 3 of example-1 (32 g) in a 500 ml round bottom flask equipped with overhead stirrer, thenno pocket and dropping funnel at 25 to 30°. The solution was cooled to -70°C and slowly added Diisobutyl aluminum hydride (1M solution in toluene, 130 ml) maintaining the temperature at -70 to -SCC. The reaction mixture was stirred at same temperature for 90 min and progress of reaction was monitored by TLC. After the completion of the reaction, methanol (130 ml) was charged at -70 to -80°C. Raised the temperature from 25 to 30°C and maintained for 30 minutes. The unwanted salt was filtered and washed with methanol (30 ml). The filtrate was passed through silica column and solvent was distilled out completely under vacuum to obtained above said product as viscous oil (33 g) (HPLC purity - 93%)

Step 5: Preparation of {Z)-7-(1R,2R,3R,6S)-6-hydroxy-2-[(3R)dimethyltert-butyI silyloxy-5-(phBnyl-1 -p6ntyi)-3-(dimethyl tert-butyl8ilyloxy)cyclopentyl-5-hetp-enoic acid.
4-Carboxybutyl)triphenylphosphonium bromide (66.2 g) was suspended in tetrahydrofuran (265 ml) at 25 to 30°C. The reaction mass was cooled to 15 to 20°C under stirring and lot wise potassium tert-butoxide (33,5 g) was added at 15 to 20X over a period of 30 minutes, The temperature was raised to 20 to 25° C, maintained at same temperature for 30 minutes. The reaction mass was cooled to -10 to -15°C and solution of compound of step 4 of example 1 (10g In 30 ml tetrahydrofuran) was added slowly at -10 to -15°C. The reaction mixture was maintained at -10 to -15X for 2 hours until TLC shows the reaction was complete. Tetrahydrofuran was distilled out completely under vacuum below 30°C. Water (100 ml) was charged and stirred for 30 minutes at 25 to SCC. The unwanted salt was filtered and washed with water (10 ml). To the filtrate (10%) citric acid solution was added to adjust pH to 4.0. Ethyl acetate (250 ml) was added and stirred for 20 minutes. The organic layer was separated and the aqueous layer was extracted with ethyl acetate (250 ml). The combined ethyl acetate layers were washed with brine solution and distilled out completely under vacuum at 40-45''C. The crude product thus obtained was purified by column chromatography to get 7-8 grams title compound.

Step 6: Preparation of Isopropyl (Z)-7-(1R,2R,3R,5S)-5-hydroxy-2-[(3R)dimothyl tert-butylsllyloxy-5-(phenyl-1-pentyl)-3-(dimethyltert''butylsllyloxy)cyclop6ntyl-5-hetpanoate Dimethyl formamlde (100 ml) and compound of step 5 of example 1 (10 g) were taken in a 250 ml round bottom flask at 25 to 30°C. Cesium carbonate (7.8 g) was charged under stirring at 25 to 30°C and stirred for 15 minutes. Further isopropyl bromide (3.9 g) was added and temperature was raised to 40 to 45''C. The temperature was maintained at 40 to 45X for 3 to 4 hours until reaction is completed by TLC. The reaction mass was cooled to 25 to 30°C and water (100 ml) was charged. The pH of the solution was adjusted with potassium hydrogen sulphate (10% solution, -20 ml). Charged ethyl acetate (100 ml) and stirred for 15 to 20 minutes. Separated the organic layer and aqueous layer was extracted with ethyl acetate. The combined organic layers were washed with brine solution. Finally organic layer was passed through silica column and distilled out solvent completely under vacuum at 40 to 45''C to get viscous residue (10 g) as a protected Latanoprost.

Step 7: Preparation of Latanoprost
In a 250 ml round bottom flask fitted with mechanical stirrer, thermo pocket and stopper, charged isopropyl alcohol (30 ml) and compound obtained in step 6 of example 1 (10 g) at 25 to 30°C. 2N HCI (40 ml) was slowly added during 25 to 30 minutes at 25 to 30°. The mixture was stirred at 25 to SCC for 3 to 5 hours till the reaction is completed by TLC. Water (100 ml) was charged and pH adjusted to 6.5 with sodium bicarbonate solution at 25 to 30X. Charged ethyl acetate (150 ml) and stirred for 20 minutes, The organic layer was seperated and aqueous layer was extracted twice with ethyl acetate. The ethyl acetate fractions were combined and washed with brine solution. The solvent was distilled out completely under vacuum below 30°C. The crude product was purified by column chromatography/ HPLC to obtain 5 g Latanoprost.

Example 2: Preparation of Bimatoprost
Step 1: Preparation of 1(S) -2oxa-3-oxo-6R-(3S-hydro)£y-5- phenyl-1- trans-pentenyi)-7-R-hydroxy-cis-bicycio-[3.3.0]-octane
To a solution of product obtained in step 3 (10 g) in methanol (100 ml) was charged potassium carbonate (1.66 g) at 20-30X and stirred at 20 to 30X for 5 to 7 hours. After the completion of the reaction, methanol was distilled out completely under vacuum at 40 to 45°C. IN Hydrochloric acid (120 ml) and ethyl acetate (100 ml) were charged and stirred for 30 minutes at 20 to 30°C. The organic layer was separated and the aqueous layer was extracted with ethyl acetate twice. The combined ethyl acetate layers were washed with brine solution and ethyl acetate was distilled out completely under vacuum at 40 to 45°C. The residue thus obtained was separated by column chromatography to obtain 5.4 to 6.0 g title compound as viscous oil.

Step 2: Preparation of 1 S,SR,6R7R)-6-[(3S)dimethyitert-butyi8ilyioxy-5-phenyl-1 -pentenyl)(7S)dimethyitert-butyiBiiyioxy-2-oxabicycio[3.3.0]octan-3-one
To a 500 ml round bottom flask fitted with mechanical stirrer and thermo pocket, charged tetrahydrofuran (170 ml) and 1S,5R,6R,7R-6-[(3R)-3-hydroxy-5-phenyl-1-pentenyl)-7-(S)-hydroxy-2-oxabicyclo [3.3.0] octan-3-one (16 g) at 25 to 30°C. The reaction mixture was stirred for 10 minutes followed by the addition of imidazole (21.6 g) and tert-Butyldimethylsilyl chloride (33.6 g) at 25 to 30°C. The temperature was raised to 65 to 70X and maintained for 60 to 90 minutes until the completion of the reaction. The reaction mass was cooled to 40 to 45''C and tetrahydrofuran was distilled out completely under vacuum. Dichloromethane (160 ml) was charged at 25 to 30^C and stirred for 10 minutes to get the clear solution. The reaction mass was washed with 10% citric acid (60 ml). The solvent was distilled out completely under vacuum at 40 to 45°C. Methyl tert-Butyl ether (MTBE) (50 ml) was charged to the residue and stirred for 15 minutes to get clear solution. MTBE was distilled out completely under vacuum at 40 to 45''C to get 27-29 g of title compound as a white residue.

Step 3: Preparation of 1S,5R,6R,7R)-6-[(3R)dimdthyitert-butylsilyioxy-5-phenyl-1-pentenyi) (7S) dimethyltert-butyl siiyioxy-2-oxabicycio[3.3.0] octan-3-ol
Toluene (260 ml) was charged Into the compound isolated in step 2 of example 2 (25 g) in a 500 ml round bottom flask equipped with overhead stirrer, thermo pocket and dropping funnel at 25 to 30°C. The reaction mixture was cooled to -70°C and slowly added Diisobutyl aluminum hydride {122 ml) (20% solution in toluene) maintaining the temperature at -70 to -80°C. Stirred at same temperature for 45 minutes and the progress of reaction was monitored was by TLC. Methanol (105 ml) was charged at -70 to -80X after completion of the reaction. The temperature was raised to 25 to 50°C and maintained for 30 minutes. The unwanted salt was filtered and and washed with methanol (50 ml). The filtrate was passed through silica column and solvent was distilled out completely under vacuum to obtain the above said product as viscous oil (23 g).

Step 4: Preparation of (Z)- 7-(1R,2R,3R,5S) -5-hydroxy -2- [(3R) dimethyl t.butyl silyloxy-5-(phenyl-1-pentenyl)-3-( dimathyi t.butyl silyloxy) cyclopentyl -S-hetp-enoic acid.
(4-Carboxybutyl)triphenyIphosphonium bromide (151.5 g) was suspended in tetrahydrofuran (604 ml) at 25 to 30°C. The reaction mixture was cooled under stirring to 15 to 20°C and lot wise potassium tertiary butoxide (76.8 g) was added at 15 to 20°C and maintained for 30 minutes. Cooled slowly to -10 to -15° C and a solution of compound obtained in step 3 of example 2 (22.8 g in 69 ml tetrahydrofuran) was added slowly at -10 to -IST. Maintained at -10 to -15°C for 2 hours until TLC shows the reaction was complete. The tetrahydrofuran was distilled out completely under vacuum below 30X. Water (228 ml) was charged and stirred for 30 minutes at 25 to 30°C. The unwanted salt was filtered and washed with water (25 ml). To the filtrate added (10%) citric acid solution to adjust the pH to 4.0. Ethyl acetate (450ml) was added and stirred for 20 minutes. The organic layer was separated. The aqueous layer was extracted with ethyl acetate (2x150 ml). Combined all the ethyl acetate layers and washed with brine solution. Ethyl acetate was distilled out completely under vacuum at 40 to 45°C. The crude product thus obtained was purified by column chromatography to get 18- 20 g title compound.

Step 5: Preparation of Methyl (Z)-7-(1R,2R,3R,5S)«5-hydroxy-2-[(3R)dimethyl tert-butylsilyloxy-5-(phenyM-pentenyl)-3-(dimethyltert-butylsllyloxy)cyclopentyl-5-hetpanoate
Dimethyl formamide (100 ml) and compound isolated in step 4 of example 2 (10 g) was taken In 250 ml round bottom flask at 25 to 30°C.Cooled to 0 to 10°C. Cesium carbonate (7.9 g) was added under stirring at 0 to ICC and stirred for 15 minutes followed by the addition of methyl iodide (3.4 g) at 0 to 10°C. The temperature was maintained at 0 to 10°C for 3 to 4 hours until the reaction is completed by TLC. Water (400 ml) was added and the pH was adjusted 6.5 to 7.0 using potassium hydrogen sulphate (10% solution, 20 ml). Ethyl acetate (100 ml) was charged and stirred for 15 to 20 minutes. The organic layer was separated and aqueous layer was extracted with ethyl acetate (2x75 ml). The combined organic layers were washed with brine solution. Finally, organic layer was washed with brine solution and the solvent was distilled out completely under vacuum at 40 to 45°C to get viscous residue (9 g).

Step 6: Preparation of (Z)-7-(1R,2R.3R.5S)-5-hydroxy-2-[(3R)dlmethyltGrt-butyl silyloxy-5-(phenyl-1-pentenyl)-3-(dimethyltert-butylsilyloxy)cyclopentyl-5-N-othyl heptenamide (protected Bimatoprost)
Methanol (25 ml) and compound isolated in step 5 of example 2 (2,3 g) were taken in 100 ml round bottom flask at 25 to 30°C. The reaction mass was cooled to 10 to 15°C, Purged ethyl amine gas for 3 to 4 hours. The temperature of the reaction mixture was increased to 25 to 30°C and maintained at 25 to 30°C for 65 to 70 hours until reaction is completed by TLC. The solution was concentrated at 30 to 40°C, and D.M water (25 ml) was charged to the residue. The pH was adjusted to 6.5 to 7.0 with potassium hydrogen sulphate solution. Ethyl acetate (25 ml) was added and stirred for 15 minutes. The organic layer was separated. The aqueous layer was extracted with ethyl acetate (2x20 ml). The combined organic layer was washed with brine solution (30ml). The solvent was distilled out completely under vacuum at 35 to 40°C to get clear viscous residue (2-2.3 g) as a protected Bimatoprost.

Step 7: Preparation of Bimatoprost
In a 100 ml round bottom flask fitted with stirrer, thermo pocket and stopper was charged methanol (20 mi) and the compound obtained in step 6 of example 2 at 25 to 30°C. The resulting mixture was cooled to 15 to 20°C and slowly added 2N HCI (5 ml) at 15 to 20°. The reaction mixture was maintained under stirring at 15 to 20°C for 3 to 5 hours till reaction is completed by TLC. Water (40 ml) was added and cooled to 0 to 10°C, the pH was adjusted to 6.5 to 7.0 with 5% sodium carbonate solution at 0 to 10°C. Ethyl acetate (40 ml) was charged and stirred for 15 minutes. The organic layer was separated and aqueous layer extracted with ethyl acetate (2x 40 ml). The combined ethyl acetate fraction was washed with brine solution. The solvent was distilled out completely under vacuum below 30°C, The crude product was purified by flash column chromatography/ preparative HPLC to obtained pure Bimatoprost. (0.8-1.0 9)

Step 8: Purification of Bimatoprost
The crude Bimatoprost (1.2 g) was dissolved in dichloromethane (15 ml) at 20-25°C to get clear solution. The reaction mass was filtered through micron filter to make particle free. Charged filtrate to RB flask and slowly added diisopropyl ether (90 mi) over a period of 30-45 minutes. The product was filtered and washed with diisopropyl ether to obtain 0.8-0.9 g pure Bimatoprost.

Step 8A: Purification of Bimatoprost
The crude product obtained in step 7 (1.2 g) was dissolved in dichloromethane (15 ml) to get clear solution at 25 to 30°C. slowly added diisopropyl ether (90 ml) over a periodof 30 to 45 minutes. Stirred for one hour at 25 to 300 C, filtered and washed with diisopropyl ether to obtain 0.8 to 0.9 g pure bimatoprost Note: In the purification step, diethyl ether can also be used instead of diisopropyl ether.

We claim

1. A process for the synthesis of a compound of formula 1:
comprising the steps of;

a) oxidizing the compound of formula 2,

Wherein, R is PPB, benzoyl, Cbz or BOC.
to form a compound of formula 3,
Formula 3

b) reacting a compound of formula 3, with triphenyl-4-(phenyl-2- oxobutyl) phosphonium bromide having the formula SC-1

in presence of a solvent to form a compound of formula 4,

c) reducing the compound of formula 4 in presence of (-)-Diisopinocampheyl chloroborane to form a compound of formula 5,

d) optionally, hydrogenating the double bond of the compound of formula 5 in the
presence of catalyst in a solvent to form a compound of formula 6,

e) deprotecting a compound of formula 6 in a base, solvent to form a compound of
formula 7,

f) protecting the hydroxyl groups of the compound of formula 7 with a tert-
butyldimethylsilyl chloride, in the presence of a base to form a compound of formula 8

g) reducing the lactone group in the compound of formula 8 to obtain a di-protected lactol of formula 9, and

h) reacting the compound of formula 9 with 4-carboxy butyltriphenyl phosphonium bromide having the formula:

in the presence of a base and a solvent to generate the compound of formula 1.

2. The process according to claim 1(a) wherein, the oxidation is carried out in a
combination of dimethylsulfoxide and dicyclohexylcarbodiimide.

3. The process according to 1(b) wherein, the solvent is selected from dimethoxyethane or toluene.

4. The process according to claim 1(d) wherein, the hydrogenation of compound of formula 5 is performed using a catalyst selected from palladium on carbon, platinum or nickel,

5. The process according to claim 1(d) wherein, the solvent is selected from ethanol, methanol, isopropanol or n-butanol.

6. The process according to claim 1(e) wherein, the deprotection of the compound of formula 6 is performed using a base selected from potassium carbonate, sodium
carbonate or cesium carbonate.

7. The process according to claim 1(e) wherein, the solvent is selected from ethanol, methanol, isopropanol or n-butanol.

8. The process according to claim 1(f) wherein, the base is selected from imidazole, triethylamine, diisopropylethylamine or tributylamine.

9. The process according to claim 1(g) wherein, the reduction of the lactone group is carried out using diisobutyl aluminum hydride.

10. The process according to claim 1(h) wherein, the base is selected from n-butyl lithium, sodium amide, sodium hydride, sodium methoxide, sodium ethoxide, potassium tert-butoxide or potassium ethoxide, in the presence of a solvent selected from tetrahydrofuran, toluene ordichloromethane.

11. A process for the synthesis of Latanoprost,
comprising the steps of:

a) reacting the compound of formula 1,

wherein the dotted bond (------) is no bond, with isopropyl bromide in the presence of a base to form a compound of formula 10, and

b) deprotecting the silyl protected dial to give Latanoprost.

12. The process according to claim 10(a) wherein, the base is selected from cesium carbonate, potassium carbonate, sodium carbonate, potassium bicarbonate or sodium bicarbonate.

13. The process according to claim 10(b) wherein, the deprotection of the silyl protecting group is carried out in the presence of an acid selected from an aqueous hydrochloric acid or aqueous sulfuric acid.

14. A process for the synthesis of Bimatoprost,
comprising the steps of:

a) reacting the compound of formula 1,

wherein dotted bond (------) is a single bond, with methyl iodide in the presence of a base to form a compound of formula 11,

b) reacting the ester derivative of formula ‘11 with ethylamine in a solvent, and

c) deprotecting the silyl protected diol to give Bimatoprost.

15. The process according to claim 14(a) wherein, the base is selected from cesium carbonate, potassium carbonate, sodium carbonate, potassium bicarbonate or sodium bicarbonate.

16. The process according to claim 14(b) wherein, the amidification is carried out in a solvent selected from methanol, ethanol, Isopropanol, n-propanol, n-butanol, isobutanol or mixtures thereof.

17. The process according to claim 14(c) wherein, the deprotection of the silyl group is carried out in the presence of an add.

18. The process according to claim 17 wherein, the acid is selected from aq. Hydrochloric acid or aq. sulfuric acid.

19. A process for the purification of Bimatoprost comprising the steps of;

a) dissolving Bimatoprost in a solvent,
b) adding an antisolvent. and
c) isolating Bimatoprost.

20. The process according to claim 19 wherein, the solvent is selected from dichloromethane, chloroform, 1,2-dichloroethane, carbon tetrachloride,

21. The process according to claim 19 wherein, the anti-solvent is selected from diisopropyl ether or diethyl ether.

22. A process for the synthesis of triphenyl-4-(phenyl-2-oxobutyl)phosphoniurn bromide, used in claim 1(b) of formula SC-1,

Comprising the steps of:

a) reacting benzyl acetone with bromine in a solvent to obtain 1-Bromo-4-phenyl-butan-2-one,

b) reacting 1-Bromo-4-phenyl-butan-2-one with triphenyl phosphine in a solvent to obtain triphenyl- 4(phenyl-2- oxo butyl)phosphonium bromide.

23. The process according to claim 21(a) wherein, benzyl acetone is reacted with alcoholic bromine in a solvent selected from methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, n-propanol, preferably, methanol.

24. The process according to claim 21(b) wherein, the solvent is selected from toluene, tetrahydrofuran, diethyl ether, preferably toluene.

25. The process as in all the preceeding claims wherein Latanoprost and Bimatoprost are having purity greater than 99.8%.