Title of Invention	"TRIAROMATIC VITAMIN D ANALOGUES AND PHARMACEUTICAL COMPOSITION THEREOF"
Abstract	Triaromatic vitamin D analogues characterized in that they correspond to the general formula (I) below: in which X, Y, R1, R2, R3 are as defined in the claims and a pharmaceutical composition comprising the same.

Full Text

The present invention relates to triaromatic vitamin d analogues and pharmaceutical composition thereof. The invention relates, as novel and useful industrial products, to triaromatic compounds which are vitamin D analogues. The invention also relates to a process for preparing them and to their use in pharmaceutical compositions intended for use in human or veterinary medicine, or alternatively in cosmetic compositions. The compounds according to the invention have pronounced activity in the fields of cell proliferation and differentiation and find applications more particularly in the topical and systemic treatment of dermatological (or other) complaints associated with a keratinization disorder, complaints with an inflammatory and/or immunoallergic component and hyperproliferation of tissues of ectodermal origin (skin, epithelium, etc.), whether benign or malignant. These compounds can also be used to combat ageing of the skin, whether photo-induced or chronological, and to treat cicatrization disorders. The compounds according to the invention can also be used in cosmetic compositions for body and hair hygiene. Vitamin D is an essential vitamin for preventing and treating mineralization defects of cartilage (rickets) and of bone (osteomalacia), and even of certain forms of osteoporosis in elderly people. However, it is now accepted that its functions extend well beyond regulating bone metabolism and calcium homeostasis. Among these functions, mention may be made of its actions on cell proliferation and differentiation and the control of the immune defences. Their discovery has opened the way to novel therapeutic approaches in dermatology, carcinology and in the field of autoimmune diseases and that of organ or tissue transplants. An efficient therapeutic supply has long been confounded by the toxicity of this vitamin (occasionally fatal hypercalcaemia). Structural analogues of vitamin D are currently synthesized, some of which conserve only the differentiating properties and have no action on calcium metabolism. The Applicant has already oroposed, in patent application WO 01/38303, novel compounds that are vitamin D analogues, which show selective activity on cell proliferation and differentiation without having a hypercalcaemiant nature. The Applicant has just discovered, surprisingly, that certain compounds not specifically described in patent application WO 01/38303 show biological activity very much superior to that of the compounds specifically described. This activity is so strong that it is greater than or equal to the activity of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. Thus, the present invention relates to compounds of general formula (I) below: (Figure Remove) in which: - X-Y represents a bond chosen from the following structures: -CH2-CHr -CHrO- -O-CH2--CH2-N(R4)-R* having the meanings given below, - R, represents a methyl radical or an ethyl radical, - R2 represents an ethyl radical, a propyl radical or an isopropyl radical, - R3 represents an ethyl radical or a trifluoromethyl radical, - RA represents a hydrogen atom, a methyl radical, an ethyl radical or a propyl radical, and aiso to the optical and geometrical isomers thereof, and the salts thereof. The present invention also relates to the compounds described above when they are in the form of salts of a mineral or organic acid, in particular hydrochloric acid, sulphuric acid, acetic acic, fumaric acid, hemisuccinic acid, rnaleic acid and mandelic acid. Among the compounds of formula (I) falling within the context of the present invention, mention may be made especially of the following: 1- {5-[4'-(1-Ethyl-1-hydroxypropyl)-6-methyl-2'-propylbiphenyl-3-yloxymethyl]-2-hydroxy- methylphenyl}methanol; 2- (5-[6,2'-Diethyl-4'-(1-ethyl-1-hydroxypropyl)biphenyl-3-yloxymethyl]-2-hydroxymethyl- phenyl}methanol; 3- {4-[6-Ethyl-4'-(1-ethyl-1-hydroxypropyl)-2'-propylbiphenyl-3-yloxyme methylphenyl}methanol; 4- {4-[6-Ethyl-4'-(1-ethyl-1-hydroxypropyl)-2'-isopropylbiphenyl-3-yloxymethyl]-2-hydroxy- methylphenyl)methanol; 5- (4-{2-[4'-( 1 -Ethyl-1 -hydroxypropyl)-6-methyl-2'-propylbiphenyl-3-yl]ethyl}-2-hydroxy- methylphenyl)methanol; 6- {4-[4'-(1 -Ethyl-1 -hydroxypropyl)-6-methyl-2'-propylbiphenyl-3-ylmethoxy]-2-hydroxy- methylphenyl}methanol; 7- (4-{[4'-(1-Ethyl-1-hydroxypropyl)-6-methyl-2'-propylbiphenyl-3-ylamino]methyl}- 2-hydroxymethylphenyl)methanol; 8- [4-({[4'-(1 -Ethyl-1 -hydroxypropy[)-6-methyl-2'-propylbiphenyl-3-yl]methylamino}methyl)- 2-hydroxymethylphenyl]methanol; 9- [4-({Ethyl-[4'-(1-ethyl-1-hydroxypropyl)-6-methyl-2'-propylbiphenyl-3-yl]amino}methyl)-2- hydroxymethylphenyljmethanol; 10-[4-({[4'-(1-Ethyl-1-hydroxypropyl)-6-methyl-2'-propylbiphenyl-3-yl]propylamino}methy!)- 2-hydroxymethylphenyl]methanol; 11-(2-Hydroxymethyl-4-{2-r6-methyl-2'-propyl-4'-(2,2,2-trif1uoro-1-hydroxy-1- trifluoromethylethyl)biphenyl-3-yl]ethyl}phenyl)methanol: 12-{2-Hydroxymethyl-4-[6-methyl-2'-propyl-4'-(2,2,2-trifluoro-1-hydroxy-1- trifluoromethylethyl)biphenyl-3-yloxymethyl]phenyl}methanol; 13-{2-hydroxymethyl-4-[6-methyl-2'-propyl-4'-(2,2,2-trifluoro-1-hydroxy-1- tnfluoromethylethyl)biphenyl-3-ylmethoxy]phenyl}methanol; 14-(2-Hydroxymetnyl-4-{[6-methyl-2'-propyl-4'-(2,2,2-trifluoro-1-hydroxy-1- trifluoromethyiethyl)biphenyl-3-ylam!no]methyl}phenyl)methanol; 15-[2-Hydroxymetnyl-4-({N-methyl[6-methyl-2'-propyl-4'-(2,2,2-trifluoro-1-hydroxy-1- trifluoronnethylethyl)biphenyl-3-yl]amino}methyi)phenyl]methano!; 16-[4-({N-Ethyl[6-methy!-2'-propyl-4'-(2.2,2-trifluoro-1-hydroxy-1- trifluoromethylethyl)biphenyi-3-yl]amino}methyl)-2-hydroxymethylphenyl]methanol; 17-[2-Hydroxymethyl-4-({[6-methyl-2'-propy!-4'-(2,2,2-trifluoro-1-hydroxy-1- trifluoromethy!ethyl)biphenyl-3-yl3N-propylamino}methyl)phenyl]methanol; 18-(4-{2-!6-Ethyi-4'-(1-ethyl-1-hydroxypropyl)-2'-propylbiphenyl-3-yl]ethyl}-2-hydroxy- methybhenyi)methanol; 19-{4-[6-Ethyl-4'-(1-ethyl-1-hydroxypropyl)-2'-propylbiphenyl-3-ylmethoxy]-2-nydroxy- methylphenyl}methanol; 20-(4-{[6-Ethyl-4'-(1 -ethyl- 1-hydroxypropyl )-2'-propylbiphenyl-3-ylamino]methyl}- 2-hydroxymethylphenyl)methanol; 21-[4-({[6-Ethyl-4'-(1-ethyl-1-hydroxypnDpyl)-2'-propylbiphenyl-3-yl]methy!amino}methyl)-2- hydroxymelhylphenyl]methanol; 22-[4-({Ethyl-[6-ethyl-4'-(1-ethyi-1-hydroxypropyl)-2'-propylbipheny)-3-yl]amino}methyl)- 2-nydroxymethy|phenyl]methanol; 23-[4-({[6-Ethyl-4'-(1-ethyl-1-hydroxypropy l)-2'-propylbiphenyl-3-yl]propylamino}methyl)- 2-hydroxymethy!phenyl]methanoI; 24-(4-{2-i6-Ethyl-2'-propyl-41-(2.2,2-tnfluoro-1-hydroxy-1~trifluoromethylethyl)biphenyl-3- yl]ethyl}-2-hydroxymethylphenyl)methanol; 25-{4-[6-Ethyl-2'-propyl-4'-(2,2,2-trifluoro-1-hydroxy-1-trifluoromethy]ethyl)biphenyl-3- yloxymethy!]-2-hydroxymethylphenyl}methanol; 26-{4-.[6-Ethyl-2'-propyl-4'-(2.2,2-trifluoro-1-hydroxy-1-tnfIuoromethylethyl)biphenyl-3- ylmethoxy]-2-hydroxymethylphenyI}methanol; 27-(4-{[6-Ethyl-2'-propyl-4'-(2,2,2-trifluoro-1-hydroxy-1-trifluoromethylethyl)biphenyl-3- ylamino]methyl}-2-hydroxymethylphenyl)methanol; 28-[4-({[6-Ethyl-2'-propyl-4'-(2,2,2-trifluoro-1-hydroxy-1-trifluoromethylethyl)biphenyl-3- yl]methylammo}methyl)-2-hydroxymethylphenyl]methanol; 29-[4-({N-Ethyl[6-ethy!-2'-propyl-4'-(2,2,2-trifluoro-1-hydroxy-1- trifluoromethylethyl)biphenyl-3-yl]amino}methyl)-2-hydroxymethylphenyl]methanol; 30-[4-({[6-Ethyl-2'-propyl-4'-(2,2.2-trifluoro-1-hydroxy-1-1rifluoromethylethyl)biphenyl-3-yl]- NI-propylarnino}methyl)-2-hydroxymethylphenyl]methanol; 31-(4-{[4l-(1-Etnyl-1-hydroxypropyl)-6.2'-dinnethylbiphenyl-3-ylamino]methyl}-2-hydroxy-metnylphenyl)methanol. According to the present invention, the compounds of formula (!) that are more particularly preferred are those for which at least one, and preferably all, of the conditions oelow are satisfied: (i) -X-Y represents -CH2-CH2-; (ii) RI is an ethyl radical; (iii) R2 is a propyl radical; (iv) R3 is an ethyl radical. A subject of the present invention is also processes for preparing the compounds of formula (I) according to the reaction schemes presented in Figure 1. When -X-Y- represents a bond of structure -CH2-0- or -CH2-N(R4)-, the compounds of formula (la) are preferably prepared from compounds (1) and (2), obtained according to the reaction schemes of Figure 2. The compounds (1) (when Y = 0) and (2) may be obtained, respectively, from compounds (4) and (9), firstly by forming the trifluoromethanesulphonate derivatives ((5) and (10), respectively) in the presence of trifluoromelhanesulphonic anhydride and a base such as triethylamine in dichloromethane. Next, by means of a Suzuki coupling reaction with the boronic acid derivatives (6) in the presence of a catalyst such as tetrakis(triphenylphosphine)palladium(0), the derivatives (7) and (11) are respectively obtained, followed by a coupling reaction with the bromo derivatives (8) in the presence of potassium carbonate in methyl ethyl ketone. When Y = NRA, compound (1) may be obtained from compound (12), firstly by a Suzuki coupling reaction with the boronic acid derivative (13) in the presence of a catalyst such as tetrakis(triphenylphosphine)palladium(0), to give the derivative (14), followed by a coupling reaction with the bromo derivatives (8) in the presence of sodium hydride in dimethylformamide. When -X-Y- represents a bond of structure -CHrCH2-, the compounds of formula (la) snown in Figure 1 are prepared from the compounds (3), obtained according to the reaction scheme shown in Figure 3. Via a Suzuki reaction of the trifluoromethanesulphonate derivatives (5) with the boronic acid derivatives (15) in the presence of a catalyst such as tetra is(triphenylphosphine)palladium(0) and a base such as potassium carbonate in a solvent such as 1,2-dimethoxyethane, tne compounds (16) are obtained. These compounds are converted into the compounds (18) by a Horner-Emmons reaction with compound (17), and then into the compounds (19) by protecting the ketone function in dioxolane form (ethylne glycol, para-toluenesulphonic acid, toluene). Reduction of the double bond in the presence of palladium-on-charcoal in a solvent such as methanol gives the compounds (3). Compound (6) may be obtained according to the reaction scheme of Figure 4. Compounds (8) and (17) may be obtained according to the reaction scheme of Figure 5. Compounds (12) and (13) may be obtained according to the reaction scheme of Figure 6. Compound (15) may be obtained according to the reaction scheme of Figure 7. When R3 represents a trifluoromethyl radical, the compounds (I) may be obtained from the corresponding bromo derivative by formation of the organomagnesium or organolithium derivative followed by reaction with hexafluoroacetone. The compounds according to the invention show biological properties analogous to those of vitamin D, especially properties of transactivation of the vitamin D response elements (VDRE), such as agonist or antagonist activity with respect to receptors of vitamin D or its derivatives. The expression "D vitamins or derivatives thereof means, for example, the derivatives of vitamin D2 or 03 and in particular 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin 03 (calcitriol). This agonist activity with respect to receptors of vitamin D or of derivatives thereof may be demonstrated "in vitro" oy methods known in the field of study of gene transcription (Hansen et a/., The Society For Investigative Dermatology, vol.1, N°1, April 1996). The biological properties analogous to vitamin D may also be measured by means of the capacity of the product to induce the differentiation of promyelocytic leukaemia cells HL60, The protocol and also the results obtained with the compounds according to the invention are described in Example 8 of the present patent application. By way of example, the VDR agonist activity may be tested on the HeLa cell line by cotransfection of an expression vector of the human VDR receptor and of the reporter plasmid p240Hase-CAT. The agonist activity may also be characterized in this cotransfection system, by determininq the dose required to achieve 50% cf the maximum activity of the product (AC50). The details of the protocol for this test ana the results obtained with the compounds according to the invention are described ;n Example 9 of the present patent application. The biological properties analogous to vitamin D may also be measured by means of the capacity of the product to inhibit the proliferation of normal human keratinocyles (NHK in culture). The product is added to NHKs cultured under conditions promoting the proliferative state. The product is left in contact with the cells for five days. The number of proliferative cells is measured by incorporation of bromodeoxyuridine (BRdU) into the DNA. The protocol for this test and the results obtained with the compounds according to the invention are described in Example 10 of the present patent application. A subject of the present invention is also, as a medicinal product, the compounds described above The compounds according to the invention are particularly suitable in the following fields of treatment: 1) for treating dermatological complaints associated with a differentiation or proliferation disorder of keratinocytes or sebocytes, especially for treating common acne, comedones, polymorphonuclear leukocytes, acne rosacea, nodulocystic acne, acne conglobata, senile acne and secondary acnes such as solar acne, acne medicamentosa or occupational acne; 2) for treating keratinization disorders, especially ichthyosis, ichthyosiform conditions, Darier's disease, palmoplantar keratoderma, leukoplakia and leukoplakiform conditions, and cutaneous or mucous (buccal) lichen; 3) for treating other dermatological complaints associated with a keratinization disorder with an inflammatory and/or immunoallergic component, and especially all forms of psoriasis, whether cutaneous, mucous or ungual psoriasis, and even psoriatic rheumatism, or alternatively cutaneous atopy, such as eczema or respiratory atopy, or alternatively gingival hypertrophy; 4) for treating certain inflammatory complaints not showing a keratinization disorder, such as atopic eczema and contact allergies; 5) for treating all dermal or epidermal proliferations, whether benign or malignant, and whether of virai origin or not. such as common warts, flat warts and verruciform epiderrr.odysoiasia, oral or florid papillomatoses and proliferations that may be induced by ultraviolet radiation, especially in the case of basocellular and spinocellular epithelioma; 6) for treating other dermatological disorders such as bullous dermatosis and collagen diseases; 7) for preventing or treating the signs of ageing of the skin, whether photo-induced or chronological ageing, or for reducing actinic keratosis and pigmentations, or any cutaneous pathologies associated with chronological or actinic ageing; 8) for preventing or treating cicatrization disorders or for preventing or repairing stretch marks: 9) for controlling sebaceous function disorders such as acneic hyperseborrhoea or simple seborrhoea or alternatively seborrhoeic eczema: 10) for treating certain ophthalmologies! disorders, especially corneopathies; 11) in the treatment or prevention of cancerous or precancerous conditions of cancers presenting or being able to be induced to present vitamin D receptors, such as, but without limitation, breast cancer, leukaemia, myelodysplasic syndromes and lymphomas. carcinomas of the cells of the malpighian epithelium and gastrointestinal cancers, melanomas "and osteosarcoma; 12) in the treatment of inflammatory complaints such as arthritis or rheumatoid arthritis; 13) in tne treatment of any cutaneous or general complaint of viral origin; 14) in the prevention or treatment of alopecia of various origins, especially chemotherapy-induced or radiation-induced alopecia; 15) in the treatment of dermatological or general complaints with an immunological component; 16) in the treatment of immune complaints, such as autoimmune diseases (for instance, but without limitation, type 1 sugar diabetes, multiple sclerosis, lupus and lupus-type complaints, asthma, glomerulonephritis, etc.), selective dysfunctions of the immune system (for example AIDS) and the prevention of immune rejection [for instance graft rejections (for example kidney, heart, bone marrow, liver, pancreatic islets or the whole pancreas, the skin, etc.) or the prevention of graft-versus-host disease]; 17) in the treatment of endocrine complaints, given that the vitamin D analogues can modulate hormonal secretion, such as increasing the secretion of insulin or selectively suppressing the secretion of parathyroid hormone (for example in chronic renal insufficiency and secondary nypsrparathyroidism); 13) in the treatment of coTiplaints characterized by abnormal management of intracellular calcium; and 19) in tne treatment and/or prevention of vitamin D deficiencies and other complaints of homeostasis of minerals in the plasma and the bones, such as rickets, osteomalacia, osteoporosis, especially in the case of menopausal women, renal osteodystrophy and parathyroid function disorders. A subject of the present invention is also a pharmaceutical composition comprising at least one compound as defined above in a pharmaceuticaliy acceptable support. The compounds according to the invention may be administered enterally, parenterally, topically or ocularly. Via the enteral route, the pharmaceutical compositions may be in the form of tablets, gel capsules, sugar-coated tablets, syrups, suspensions, solutions, powders, granules, emulsions, or suspensions of polymeric or lipid vesicles or nanospheres or microspheres allowing controlled release, Via the parenteral route, the compositions may be in the form of solutions or suspensions for infusion or for injection. The compounds according to the invention are generally administered at a daily dose of about from 0.001 ^g/kg to 1 000 ng/kg and preferably of about from 0.01 ^g/kg to 100 M9/kg of body weight in 1 to 3 dosage intakes. Via the topical route, the pharmaceutical compositions based on compounds according to the invention are intended for treating the skin, the scalp and mucous membranes and are in the form of ointments, creams, milks, pomades, powders, impregnated pads, solutions, gels, sprays, lotions or suspensions. They may also be in the form of suspensions of polymeric or iipid vesicles or nanospheres or microspheres or polymeric patches and hydrogels allowing controlled release. These topical-route compositions may be either in anhyarous form or in aqueous form depending on the clinical indication. Via the ocular route, they are mainly eye lotions. These comcosrtions for the topical or ocular route contain at least one compound according to the invention in a concentration preferably of between 0.0001% and 5% and preferably between 0.001% and 1% relative to the total weight of the composition. The compounds according to the invention also find an application in cosmetics, in particular in body and hair hygiene and especially for treating acne-Drone skin, for regrowth of the hair, or for preventing hair loss, for controlling the greasy appearance of the skin or the hair, in protecting against the harmful effects of sunlight or in the treatment of dry skin, and for preventing and/or treating photo-induced or chronological ageing of the skin. The present invention is thus also directed towards a cosmetic composition containing, in a cosmetically acceptable support, at least one compound as defined above. This cosmetic composition may especially be in the form of a cream, a milk, a lotion, a gel, a suspension of polymeric or lipid vesicles or nanospheres or microspheres, a soap or a shampoo. The concentration of compound of general formula (I) in the cosmetic composition according to the invention may be between 0.001% and 3% by weight relative to the total weight of the composition. In the pharmaceutical and cosmetics fields, the compounds according to the invention may advantageously be used in combination with inert additives or even pharmacodynamically or cosmetically active additives or combinations of these additives, and especially: wetting agents; flavour enhancers; preserving agents such as para-hydroxybenzoic acid esters; stabilizers; moisture regulators; pH regulator; osmotic pressure modifiers, emuisifiers; UV-A and UV-B screening agents; antioxidants such as a-tocopherol, butylhydroxyanisole, butylhydroxytoiuene, superoxide dismutase, ubiquinol or certain metal-chelating agents; depigmenting agents such as hydroquinone: azelaic acid, caffeic acid or kojic acid; emollients; moisturizers, for instance glycerol, PEG 400, thiamorpholinone and its derivatives or urea; antiseborrhoeic or antiacne agents, such as S-carboxymethylcysteine, S-benzyl- cysteamine, salts thereof and derivatives thereof, or benzoyl peroxide; antibiotics, for instance erythromycin and its esters, neomycin, clindamycin and its esters, and tetracyclines; antifungal agents such as ketoconazole or poIy-4,5-methylne-3-isothiazo(inones; agents for promoting regrowth of the hair, for instance Minoxidil (2,4-diamino-6- piperidinopynmidine 3-oxide) and its derivatives, Diazoxide (7-chloro 3-methyl-1.2,4- benzothiadiazine 1,1-dioxide) and Phenytoin (5,4-diphenylimidazolidine-2,4-dione): non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents; carotenoids and especially 3-carotene; anti-psoriatic agents such as anthralin and its derivatives; eicosa-5,8,11,14-tetraynoic acid and eicosa-5,8,11-triynoic acid, and esters and amides thereof, retinoids, i.e. natural or synthetic RAR or RXR receptor ligands; corticosteroids or oestrogens; a-hydroxy acids and a-keto acids or derivatives thereof, sucn as lactic acid, malic acid, citric acid, glycolic acid, mandelic acid, tartaric acid, glyceric acid or ascorbic acid, and also salts, amides or esters thereof, or p-hydroxy acids or derivatives thereof, such as salicylic acid and its salts, amides or esters; ion-channel blockers such as potassium-channel blockers; or alternatively, more particularly for pharmaceutical compositions, in combination with medicinal products known to interfere with the immune system (for example cyciosporin, FK 506, glucocorticoids, monoclonal antibodies, cytokines or growth factors, etc.). Needless to say, a person skilled in the art will take care to select the optional compound(s) to be added to these compositions such that the advantageous properties of the compounds of the present invention are not, or are not substantially, adversely affected by the envisaged addition, Examples of the production of the active compounds of general formula (I) according to the invention, and also various concrete formulations based on such compounds and tests to evaluate the biological activity of the compounds according to the invention, will now be given, for illustrative purposes and with no limiting nature. EXAMPLE 1: •f5-L4'-(1-Ethvl-1-hvdroxvpropYn-6-methvl-2'-propvlbiphenvl-3-yloxv-methvn-2-hvdroxYmethylphenyQmethanol. (a) 1-(4-Hydroxy-3-propylphenyl)propan-1-one 7.1 g (53 mmol) of aluminium chloride are placed in 70 mi of nitrobenzene in a round-bottomed flask and under a stream of nitrogen. The mixture is heated at 70°C until dilution is complete. It is then cooled to 0°C and 7.2 ml (52 mmol) of 2-propylphenol are added. The mixture is allowed to warm to room temperature and is then heated to 40°C. 4.6 ml (52 mmol) of propionyl chloride are then added dropwise. The reaction medium is heated at 4Q°C for 2 hours and then stirred for 48 hours at room temperature. It is then poured into ice with 20 ml of concentrated hydrochloric acid. After extraction with ethyl ether, the organic phase is washed with 2N sodium hydroxide. The aqueous phases are acidified with hydrochloric acid and extracted with ether. The organic phase is dried over magnesium sulphate, filtered and then evaporated. The black solid obtained is triturated in heptane, filtered off and dried. 3.5 g (35%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of a black powder. (b) 4-Propionyl-2-propylpheny11,1,1-trifluoromethanesulphonate 3.4 g (18 mmol) of 1-(4-hydroxy-3-propylphenyl)-1-propanone are placed in 100ml of dichloromethane in a round-bottomed flask and under a stream of nitrogen. The reaction medium is cooled to 0°C and 3.3ml (23 mmol) of triethylamine are then added. 15 minutes later, 4.3 ml (26 mmol) of trifluoromethanesulphonic anhydride are added. 1 hour late*-, tne mixture is poured into saturated aqueous ammonium chloride solution and extracted with dichloromethane. The organic phase is dried over magnesium sulphate, filtered and then evaporated. ~he residue obtained is purified by chromatography on a column of silica eluted with a mixture of heptane and ethyl acetate (70/30). After evaporating off the solvents, 5.4 g (93%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of a brown oil. (c) 3-Bromo-4-methylphenyiamine 30 g (139 mmol) of 2-bromo-4-nitrotoluene are placed in 180ml of water, 400ml of ethanol and 110ml of acetic acid in a round-bottomed flask and under a stream of nitrogen. The medium is heated to 70°C and 31 g (556 mmol) of iron are added portionwise. The mixture is refluxed for 2 hours and, after cooling, 180 ml of 34% aqueous ammonia are added slowly. The mixture is filtered through Celite and the organic phase is extracted with water and ethyl acetate. It is then dried over magnesium sulphate, filtered and then evaporated. 25.5 g (100%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of a brown oil. (d) 3-Bromo-4-me(hylphenol 25 g (134 mmol) of 2-bromo-4-aminotoluene are placed in 400 ml of 1M sulphuric acid in a round-bottomed flask, and the mixture is then cooled to 0°C. 13 g (190 mmol) of sodium nitrite dissolved in 30 ml of water are added, followed by addition of 21 ml of concentrated sulphuric acid. The mixture is refluxed for 4 hours. It is then extracted with ethyl ether. The organic phase is dried over magnesium sulphate, filtered and then evaporated. The residue obtained is purified by chromatography on a column of silica eluted with a mixture of heptane and ethyl acetate (90/10) to give 12.1 g (48%) of the expected product in the fo^m of a brown oil. (e) 2-Bromo-4-ethoxymethoxy-1-methylbenzene 12.1 g (65 mmol) of 3-bromo-4-methylphenol are placed in 100ml of dry dimethyiformamide in a round-bottomed flask and under a stream of nitrogen. At 0°C, 3.1 g (78 mmol) of 60% sodium hydride are added slowly. After 1 hour, 7.3 ml (78 mmol) of methoxyethyl chloride are added dropwise. The mixture is stirred at room temperature overnight. It is then poured into water and extracted with ethyl acetate. The organic phase is dried over magnesium sulphate, filtered and then evaporated. The residue obtained is purified by chromatography on a column of silica eluted with a mixture of heptane and etnvl acetate (85/15; to give 13.2 g (83%) of the expected product in the form of an oil. (fl 5-Ethoxymethoxy-2-methy!pheny/boronic acid 1.4 g (59 mmol) of magnesium turnings are placed in tetrahydrofuran in a round-bottomed flask and under a stream of nitrogen. 13.2g (54 mmol) of 2-bromo-4-ethoxymethoxy-1-methylbe.nzene diluted in a small amount of THF are added slowly. The medium is "efluxed for 20 minutes. It is then added via a cannula to 15 ml (65 mmol) of triisopropyl borate. The mixture sets to a solid and is then poured into 1N hydrochloric acid solution and extracted with ether. The organic phase is dried over magnesium sulphate, filtered and then evaporated. 9.8 g (87%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of a brown oil. (g) 1'(5'-Ethoxymethoxy-2'-methyl-2-prvpylbiphenyl-4-yl)propan-1-one 1 56 g (7.4 mmol) of 5-ethoxymethoxy-2-methylphenylboronic acid, 2 g (6.2 mmol) of 4-Dropionyl-2-propylphenyl 1,1,1-trifluoromethanesulphonate, 517 mg (12 mmol) of lithium chloride and 7.4 ml of 2M potassium carbonate solution are dissolved in 50 ml of 1.2-dimethoxyethane in a round-bottomed flask and under a stream of nitrogen. The mixture is refluxed for 10 hours. It is then poured into water and extracted with ethyl acetate. The organic phase is dried over magnesium sulphate, filtered and then evaporated. A brown oil is obtained, which is used without further purification for the rest of the synthesis. (h) 1-(5'-Hydroxy-2'-methyl-2-propylbiphenyl-4-yl)propan-1-one. CS 755.064 1-(5'-Ethoxymethoxy-2'-methyl-2-propylbiphenyl-4-yl)propan-1-one, obtained in step (g), is dissolved in methanol and a few drops of sulphuric acid are added. Stirring is continued overnight and the medium ;s then extracted with ethyl acetate and water. The organic phase is dried over magnesium sulphate, filtered and then evaporated. The residue obtained is purified by chromatography on a column of silica eluted with a mixture of heptane and ethyl acetate (75/25) to give 1.53 g (88%) of the expected product in the form of a brown oil. (i) Dimethyl 4-hydroxymethylphthalate 50 cj (260 mmol) of trimellitic anhydride are placed in 500 ml of dioxane in a round-bottomed flask and under a stream of nitrogen. 520 ml (520 mmol) of borane (1M/THF) are adaed dropwise and the mixture is stirred for 48 hours at room temperature. The reaction medium is then poured slowly into saturated aqueous ammonium chloride solution and extracted with dichloromethane. The organic phase is dried over magnesium sulphate, filtered and then evaporated. The residue is dissolved in 400 ml of methanol and 5 ml of sulphuric acid are added. The resulting mixture is heated at 80°C overnight. The methanol is evaporated off and the residue is taken up in ethyl acetate and washed with water. The organic phase is dried over magnesium sulphate, filtered and then evaporated. 52.7 g (90%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of a yellow oil. (jf Dimethyl 4-(tert-butyldimethylsilanyloxymethyl)phthalate 19 g (84.8 mmol) of dimethyl 4-hydroxymethylphthalate are placed in 250ml of dimethylformamide in a round-bottomed flask and under a stream of nitrogen. 14 g (93 mmoi) of (erf-butyldimethylsilyl chloride and 8 g (118 mmol) of imidazole are added. The reaction medium is stirred for 3 hours at room temperature, it is then concentrated and the residue is dissolved in ether and then filtered. The filtrate is evaporated and the product is purified by chromatography on a column of silica eluted with a mixture of heptane and ethyl acetate (50/50) to give 23.7 g (83%) of the expected product in the form of a yellow oil. (k) [4-(tert-Butyidimethylsilanyloxymethyl)-2-hydroxymethyiphenyl]methanol 17.8 g (469 mmol) of lithium aluminium hydride are placed in 800 ml of ethyl ether in a round-bottomed flask and under a stream of nitrogen. At 0°C, a solution of 66.4 g (196 mmol) of dimethyl 4-(te/t-butyldimethylsi!anyloxymethyl)phthalate in 200 ml of ether and 100 ml of THF is added dropwise. The reaction medium is stirred at 0°C for 2 hours. 18m! of water, 18 ml of 15% sodium hydroxide solution and then 54 ml of water are added very slowly, The precipitate formed is filtered off and rinsed with ether, and the filtrate is evaporated. 52 g (94%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of a colourless oil. (I) 2-Benzoyloxymethyl-4-(tert-butyldimethylsilanyloxym8thyl)benzyl benzoate 40 g (141 mmol) of [4-(rerf-butyldimethylsilanyloxymethy!)-2-hydroxymethylphenyl]-Tiethanol are placed in 400 ml of THF in a round-bottomed flask and under a stream of nitrogen. At 0°C, 49 ml (352 mmol) of triethylamine are added, followed by dropwise addition of 34.5 ml (297 mmol) of benzoyi chloride. The reaction medium precipitates and 350 mg (2.8 mmol) of dimethylaminopyridine are then added. The mixture is allowed to warm to room temperature overnight. The medium is filtered and the solid is washed with ethyl acetate. The filtrate is evaporated and the residue is taken up in dichloromethane. The organic phase is washed with saturated aqueous ammonium chloride solution and then with water. It is then dried over magnesium sulphate, filtered and evaporated. 69.5 g (100%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of an orange-coloured oil. (m) 2-Benzoyloxymethy/-4-hydroxymethylbenzyl benzoate 69 g (140 mmol) of 2-benzoyloxymethyl-4-(tert-butyldime1hylsilanyloxymethyl)benzyl benzoate are placed in 450 m! of ethyl acetate in a round-bottomed flask and under a stream of nitrogen. 178ml of tetrabutylammonium fluoride (1M/THF) are added. The medium is stirred for 30 minutes at room temperature. It is then poured into saturated aqueous ammonium chloride solution and extracted with ethyl acetate. The organic phase is dried over magnesium sulphate, filtered and then evaporated. The residue is purified by chromatography on a column of silica eluted with a mixture of heptane and ethyl acetate (40/60) to give 46.6 g (88%) of the expected product in the form of a white powder with a melting point of 92°C. (n) 3.4-bis(benzoyloxymethyl)benzyl bromide 40 g (106 mmol) of 2-benzoy!oxymethyl-4-hydroxymethylbenzyl benzoate are placed in 500 ml of dichloromethane and 77.6 g (234 mmol) of carbon tetrabromide in a round-bottomed flask and under a stream of nitrogen. At 0°C,. a solution of 61.3 g (233 mmol) of triphenylphosphine in 200 ml of dichloromethane is added dropwise. The mixture is allowed to warm to room temperature over 2 hours. The reaction medium is poured into water and extracted with dichloromethane. The organic phase is dried over magnesium sulphate, filtered and then evaporated. The residue is purified by chromatography on a column of silica eluted with a mixture of heptane and ethyl acetate (70/30) to give 32.6 g (70%) of the expected product in the form of a white powder. (o) 1-{5'-[3,4-B/s(benzoy/oxymethy/)benzyloxy]-2'-methyl-2-propylbiphenyl-4-y/}-1-propanone 1.5g (5.4 mmol) of 1-(5'-hydroxy-2'-methyl-2-propylbiphenyl-4-yl)-1-propanone. 2.5 g (5.7 mmol) of (3,4-bis(benzoyloxymethyl)benzyl bromide and 750 mg (5.4 mmol) of Dotassium carbonate are placed in 50 ml of methyl ethyl ketone in a round-bottomed flask and under a stream of nitrogen, The mixture is refluxed overnight and, after cooling, it is filtered through Celite. The filtrate is extracted with water and ethyl acetate. The organic phase is dried over magnesium sulphate, filtered and then evaporated. The residue obtained is purified by chromatography on a column of silica eluted with a mixture of heptane and ethyl acetate (85/15) to give 1.93 g (56%) of the expected product in the form of a dark yellow oil. (p) 1-{5'-[3,4-Bis(hydroxymethyl)benzy/oxy]-2'-methyl~2-propylbiphenyl-4-yl}-1-propanone 1.9 g (3 mmol) of 1-{5'-[3l4-bis(benzoyloxymethyl)benzyloxy]-2'-methy!-2-propylbiphenyl-4-vl}-l-propanone are dissolved in 40 ml of methanolic 2% potassium carbonate solution in a round-bottomed flask. The mixture is stirred at room temperature overnight. It is then poured into water and extracted with ethyl acetate. The organic phase is dried over magnesium sulphate, filtered and then evaporated. The residue obtained is purified by chromatography on a column of silica eluted with a mixture of heptane and ethyl acetate (70/30) to give 890 mg (69%) of the expected product. (q) {5-[4'-(l-Ethyl-1-hydroxypropyl)-6-methyl-2'-propylbiphenyl-3-yloxymethyl]-2-hydroxymethylphenyl}methanol 890 mg (2 mmol) of 1-{5'-[3,4-bis(hydroxymethyl)benzyloxy]-2'-methyl-2-propylbiphenyl-4-yl}-l-propanone are placed in 40 ml of dry THF in a round-bottomed flask and under a stream of nitrogen. At 0°C, 4.1 ml (12 mmol) of ethylmagnesium bromide are added. The reaction medium is stirred at room temperature for 1 hour 30 minutes and then poured into saturated aqueous ammonium chloride solution and extracted with ethyl acetate. The organic phase is dried over magnesium sulphate, filtered and then evaporated. The residue obtained is purified by chromatography on a column of silica eluted with a mixture of heptane and ethyl acetate (50/50) to give 550 mg (64%) of {5-[4'-(1-ethyl-i-hydroxypropyl)-6-methyl-2'-propylbipheny!-3-yloxymethyl]-2-nydroxymethylphenyl}methanol in the form of white crystals with a melting point of 97°C. EXAMPLE 2: {5-f6.2'-Dlethvl-4'-n-ethYl-1-hvdroxvpropyl)biphenvl-3-yloxvmethvn-2-hvdroxvmethylphenvl>methanol. (a) A-Bromo-2-ethylphenol 5.57 g (45 mmot) of 2-ethylphenol are placed in 250 ml of chloroform in a round-bottomed flask and under a stream of nitrogen. 43.4 g (90 mmol) of tetrabutylammonium tribromide are added portionwise. The medium is stirred for 1 hour at room temperature and is then hydrolysed with saturated aqueous sodium thiosulphate solution. The organic phase is washed with water, dried over magnesium sulphate, filtered and then evaporated. 9.1 g (100%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of a yellow oil. (b) (4-Bromo-2-ethylphenoxy)-tert-b utyldimethylsilane In a manner similar to that of Example 1(j), starting with 9.1 g (45 mmol) of 4-bromo-2-ethy|phenol, and after purification by chromatography on a column of silica eluted with heptane, 11.9 g (83%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of a colourless oil. (c) i-(4-(tert-Buty/dimethylsilany/oxy)-3-ethylphenyl]propan-1 -ol 11.9 g (38 mmol) of (4-bromo-2-ethylphenoxy)-tert-butyldimethylsilane are placed in 200 ml of THF in a round-bottomed flask and under a stream of nitrogen. The reaction medium is cooled to -78°C and 16.6 ml (41 mmol) of n-butyllithium (2.5 M/THF) are added dropwise. 30 minutes later, 3.2 ml (45 mmol) of propionaldehyde are added dropwise. The medium is stirred for 3 hours at -78°C. It is then poured into saturated aqueous ammonium chloride solution and extracted with ethyl acetate. The organic phase is dried over magnesium sulphate, filtered and then evaporated. 11.1 g (100%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of a colourless oil. (d) i-[4-(tert-Butyldim9thylsilanyloxy)-3-ethylphenyl]propan-1-one 11.1g (37 mmol) of 1-[4-(tert-buty(dimethylsilanyloxy)-3-ethylphenyl)propan-1-ol are placed in 100 ml of dichloromethane in a round-bottomed flask, and 32.8 g (377 mmol) of manganese dioxide are added. The medium is stirred overnight at room temperature. It is hen filtered through Celite and rinsed with dichloromethane. The filtrate is evaporated and the residue is purified by chromatography on a column of silica eluted with a mixture of heptane and ethyl acetate (90/10) to give 6.8 g (62%) of the expected product in the form of an orange-coloured oil. (e) 1 -(3-Ethyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)propan-1 -one In a manner similar to that of Example 1(m), starting with 6.8 g (23 mmol) of 1-[4-(tert-butyldimethylsilanyloxy)-3-ethylphenyl]propan-1-one in 50 ml of THF, 4.1 g (100%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of a beige-coloured oil. (f) 2-E(hyl-4-propionylphenyl 1,1.1-1rifluoromethane$ulphonate In a manner similar to that of Example 1(b), by reacting 4.6 g (26.3 mmol) of 1-(3-etnyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)propan-1-one with 4.8 ml (28.9 mmol) of trifluoromethanesulphonic anhydride, 8.1 g (99%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of a brown oil. (g) 1 -Bromo-2-ethyl-5-nitrobenzene 25 g (165 mmol) of 4-ethylnitrobenzene are placed in 200ml of dichloromethane in a round-bottomed flask and under a stream of nitrogen. 20 ml (230 mmol) of Irfluoromethanesulphonic acid and 33 g (115 mmol) of 1,3-dibromo-5,5-dimethylhydantoin are added and the reaction medium is stirred for 2 hours at room temperature. Saturated aqueous sodium hydrosulphite solution is then added. The phases are separated and the organic phase is neutralized with aqueous 2M sodium carbonate solution and then washed with water. It is then dried over magnesium sulphate, filtered and evaporated. 35 g (92%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of a yellow oil. (h) 3-Bromo-4-ethylphenylamine In a manner similar to that of Example 1(c), by reacting 34 g (148 mmol) of 1-bromo-2-ethyl-5-nitrobenzene with 33 g (591 mmol) of iron, and after purification by chromatography on a column of silica eluted with a mixture of heptane and ethyl acetate (90/10), 27 g (89%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of a yellow oil. (/) 3-Bromo-4-ethylphenol In a manner similar to that of Example 1(d), by reacting 27 g (135 mmol) of 3-bromo- 4-etnylPhenylamine with 11 g (162 mmol) of sodium nitrite, and after purification Pychromatography on a column of silica eluted with a mixture of heptane and ethyl acetate (90/10), 13 g (49%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of a Drown oil. (j) 1-Bromo-2-ethyl-5-ethoxymethoxybenzene In a manner similar to that of Example 1(e), by reacting 13 g (65 mmol) of 3-bromo-4-ethylphenol with 6.7 ml (72 mmol) of methoxyethy! chloride, and after purification by chromatography on a column of silica eluted with a mixture of heptane and ethyl acetate (90/10), 12 g (76%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of a yellow oil. (k) 2-Ethyl-5-ethoxymethoxyphenylboron/c acid 12 g (49 mmol) of 1-bromo-2-ethyl-5-ethoxymethoxybenzene are placed in 200 ml of dry THF in a round-bottomed flask and under a stream of nitrogen. Trie reaction medium is cooled to -78°C and 23 ml (58 mmol) of 2.5M n-butyllithium in hexane are added dropwise. 20 minutes later, 13.6ml (59 mmol) of triisopropyl borate are added slowly. Stirring is continued for 1 hour at -78°C. The mixture is then poured into a solution of water and hydrochloric acid and is then extracted with ethyl acetate. The organic phase is dried over magnesium sulphate, filtered and evaporated. The residue obtained is purified by chromatography on a column of silica eluted with a mixture of heptane and ethyl acetate (50/50). After evaporating off the solvents, 6.7 g (65%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of white crystals. (!) 1-(5'-Ethoxymethoxy-2,2'-diethylbiphenyl-4-yl)propan-1-one In a manner similar to that of Example 1(g), by reacting 2g (8.9 mmol) of 2-ethyl-5-ethoxymethoxyphenylboronic acid with 2.1 g (6.9 mmol) of 2-ethyl-4-propiony!pheny! 1,1,1-trifluoromethanesulphonate, a black oil is obtained, which is used without further purification for the rest of the synthesis. (m) l-(2.2'-Diethyl-5'-hydroxybipheny/-4-yl)propan-1-one in a manner similar to that of Example l(h), starting with 1-(5'-ethoxymethoxy-2,2'-diethylbipheny!-4-yl)propan-1-one, and after purification by chromatography on a column of silica eluted with a mixture of heptane and ethyl acetate (50/50), 1.6 g (86%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of a yellow oil. (n) 1-{5'-(3,4-Bis(benzoyloxymethyl)benzyloxy]-2,2'-diethy/biphenyl-4-yl}-1-propanon0 In a manner similar to that of Example 1(o), by reacting 1.67 g (5.9 mmol) of 1-(2,2'-diethyl-5'-hydroxybiphenyl-4-yl)-1-propanone with 2.73 g (6.2 mmol) of 3.4-bis(benzoyloxymethyl)benzyl bromide, and after purification by chromatography on a column of silica eluted with a mixture of heptane and ethyl acetate (95/5), 1.88 g (50%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of an oil. (o) i -{5'-[3,4-Bis(hydroxymethyl)benzy!oxy]-2,2'-diethylbiphenyl-4-yl}~ 1-propanonB In a manner similar to that of Example 1(p), starting with 1.8g (2.9 mmol) of 1-{5'-[3,4-bis(benzoyloxymethyl)benzyloxy]-2,2'-diethylbiphenyl-4-y|}-1-propanonel and after purification by chromatography on a column of silica eluted with a mixture of heptane and ethyl acetate (40/60), 84-0 mg (68%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of a colourless oil. (p) {5-[6,2'-Diethy/-4'-(1-ethyl-1-hydroxypmpyl)biphenyl-3-yloxymethyl]-2-hydroxymethyl-ohenyl}methanol In a manner similar to that of Example 1(q), by reacting 840 mg (1.9 mmol) of 1-{5'-[3,4-bis(hydroxymethyl)benzyloxy)-2,2'-diethylbiphenyl-4-yl}-1-propanone with 5.2 ml (16 mmol) of ethylmagnesium bromide (3M/ether), and after purification by chromatography on a column of silica eluted with a mixture of heptane and ethyl acetate (40/60), 254 mg (29%) of {5-[6,2'-diethyl-4'-(1-ethyl-1-hydroxypropyl)biphenyl-3-yloxymethyl]-2-hydroxymethylphenyl}methanol are obtained in the form of white crystals with a melting point of 93°C. EXAMPLE 3 : (4-r6-Ethyl-4'-(1 -ethyl-1 -hvdroxvpropvl)-2'-propvlbiphenvl- 3-vloxvmethyll-2-h¥droxvmethvlpnenyl>metha,nol (a) 1-(5'-Ethoxymethoxy-2'-ethyl-2-propylbipher)yl-4-yl)propan-1-one In a manner similar to that of Example 1(g), by reacting 1.58 g (7.1 mmol) of 2-ethyl-5-ethoxymethoxyphenylboronic acid obtained in 2(j) with 1.76 g (5.4 mmol) of 4-propionyl-2-propyiphenyl 1,1,1-trifluoromethanesuiphonate obtained in l(b), a brown oil is obtained, wnich is used without ourification. (b) 1 -(2 '-Ethyl-5'-hydroxy-2-propylbiphenyl-4-y/)propan-1 -one In a manner similar to that of Example l(h), starting with 1-(5'-ethoxymethoxy-2'-ethyl-2-propylbiphenyl-4-yi)-1-propanone, and after purification by chromatograpny on a column of siiica eluted with a mixture of heptane and ethyl acetate (90/10), 1.28 g (80%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of an oil. (c) 1-{5'-[3,4-B/s(benzoyloxymethyl)benzyloxy]-2'-ethyl-2~propylbiphenyl-4-yl}-1-propan- one In a manner similar to that of Example 1(o), by reacting 1.28 g (4.3 mmol) of 1-(2'-ethyl-5'-hydroxy-2-propylbiphenyl-4-yl)-1-propanone with 1.98g (4.5 mmol) of 3,4-bis(benzoyloxymethyl)benzyl bromide, an oil is obtained, which is used without purification. (d) 1-{5'-[3,4-Bis(hydroxymethyl)b6nzyloxy]-2'-ethyl-2-propylbiphe.nyl-4-yl}-1-propanone In a manner similar to that of Example 1(p), starting with 1-{5'-[3,4- b!s(benzoyloxymethyl)benzyloxy]-2'-ethyl-2-propylbiphenyl-4-yl}-1 -propanone, and after purification by chromatography on a column of silica eluted with a mixture of heptane and ethyl acetate (30/70), 830 mg (43%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of a colourless oil. (e) {4-[6-Ethyl-4'-(1-ethyl-1-hydroxypropyl)-2'-propylbiphenyl-3-yloxym8thyl]-2- hydroxymethylpheny!}methanol ir a manner similar to that of Example 1(q), by reacting 830 mg (1.9 mmol) of 1-{5'-[3,4-bis(hydroxymethyl)benzyloxy]-2'-ethyl-2-propylbipheny!-4-yl}-1-propanone with 5.1 ml (15.2 mmot) of ethylmagnesium bromide (3M/ether), and after purification by cnromatography on a column of silica eluted with a mixture of heptane and ethyl acetate (40/60), 700 mg (77%) of {4-[6-ethyl-4'-(1-ethyl-1-hydroxypropyl)-2'-propylbiphenyl-3-yloxymethyl]-2-hydroxymethylphenyl}methanol are obtained in the form of white crystals with a melting point of 101°C. EXAMPLE 4 : {4-[6-EthYl-4'-(1-etnvl-1-hvdroxvpropyl)-2'-isopropylbiphenyl- 3-yloxvmethyn-2-hvdroxvmethylphenyl>methanol. (a) 1-(4-Hydroxy-3-isopropylphBnyl)propan-1-one In a manner similar to that of Example 1 (a), by reacting 10 g (73 mmol) of 2-isopropylphenol with 6.3 ml (73 mmol) of propionyl chloride, 4.5 g (32%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of white crystals with a melting point of 105°C. (b) 2-lsopropyl-4-propionylphenyl 1,1,1-trifluorometh.anesulphonate In a manner similar to that of Example 1(b), by reacting 4.5 g (24 mmol) of l-(4-hydroxy-3-isopropylphenyl)-1-propanone with 4.4ml (26 mmol) of trifluoromethanesulphonic anhydride, 7.5 g (100%) of the expected product are obtained. (c) 1-(5'-Ethoxymethoxy-2'-ethyl-2-isopropylbiphenyl-4-yl)propan-1-one In a manner similar to Example 1(g), by reacting 1.8g (8 mmol) of 2-ethyl-5-ethoxymethoxyphenylboronic acid obtained in 2(j) with 2 g (6.2 mmol) of 2-isopropyl-4-propionylphenyl 1,1,1-trifluoromethanesulphonate, a brown oil is obtained, which is used without purification. (d) 1-(2'-Ethyl-5'-hydroxy-2-isopropylbiphenyl-4-yl)propan-1-one In a manner similar to that of Example 1(h), starting with 1-(5'-ethoxymethoxy-2'-ethyl-2-isopropy!biphenyl-4-yl)propan-1-one, and after purification by chromatography on a column of silica eluted with a mixture of heptane and ethyl acetate (80/20), 660 mg (35%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of a colourless oil. (e) 1-{5'-[3,4-Bis(benzoyloxymethyi)benzyioxy]-2'-ethyl-2-isopropy/biph9nyl-4-yl}-1 - propanone In a manner similar to that of Example 1(o), by reacting 660 mg (2.2 mmol) of 1-(2'-ethyl-5'-hydroxy-2-isopropylbiphenyl-4-yl)propan-1-one with 1 g (2.3 mmol) of 3,4-bis-(benzoyioxyrnethyl)benzy! bromide, an oil is obtained, which is used without purification. (f) 1-{5'-(3,4-Bis(hydroxymethyl)benzyloxy]-2'-ethyl-2-isopropylbiphenyl-4-y/}-1- orooanone in a manner similar to that of Examole 1(p), starting with 1-{5'-[3,4- bis(Qen2oyloxymethyl)ben2yloxy]-2'-ethyl-2-isopropylbipnenyl-4-yl}-1-propanone, and after ourification by chromatography on a column of silica eluted with a mixture of heptane and etnyl acetate (50/50), 810 mg (83%) of tne expected product are obtained in the form of a colourless oil. (9) {4-[6-Ethyl-4'-(1-ethyl-1-hydroxypropy/)-2'-isopropylbiphenyl-3-yloxymethyl]-2-hydroxymethylphenyfymethanol In a manner similar to that of Example 1(q), by reacting 810 mg (1.8 mmol) of 1-{5'-[3,4-ois(hydroxymethyl)benzyloxy]-2'-ethyl-2-isopropylbiphenyl-4-yl}-1-propanone with 4.8 ml (15 mmol) of ethylmagnesium bromide (3M/ether), and after purification by chromatography on a column of silica eluted with a mixture of heptane and ethyl acetate (35/65), 600 mg (70%) of {4-[6-Ethyl-4'-(l-ethyl-1-hydroxypropyl)-2'-isopropylbiphenyl-3-Vioxymethyl)-2-hydroxymethylpnenyl}methanoi are obtained in the form of white crystals with 3 melting point of 109°C. EXAMPLES : {2-f4'-(1-Ethvl-1-hvdroxYpropvl)-6-methvl-2'-propvlbipheny|-3-vnethyl>-2-hydroxymethvlphenYl)methanol. (a) (3-Bromo-4-methylphenyl)methanol 15 g (70 mmol) of 3-bromo-4-methylbenzoic acid are placed in 150 ml of anhydrous THF in a round-bottomed flask and under a stream of nitrogen. 84 ml of 1M borane/THF are added dropwise and the reaction medium is stirred overnight at room temperature. A THF/water (50/50) solution is added slowly at 0°C and the mixture is then, poured into saturated aqueous ammonium chloride solution and extracted with ethyl acetate. The organic phase is dried over magnesium sulphate, filtered and then evaporated. 14.4 g (100%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of a yellow oil. (b) 3-Bromo-4-methylbenzaldehyde \&A g (72 mmol) of (3-bromo-4-methylphenyl)methanoi are placed in 200 ml of dichlorometnane in a round-bottomed flask. 62.6 g (72 mmol) of manganese oxide are added and the medium is stirred at room temperature overnight. The mixture is filtered through Celite and the solvent is evaporated off. 11.8 g (35%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of an oil. (c) 2~(3-Bromo-4-methy!pheny/)[1,3]dioxolane 11.8 g (60 mmol) of 3-bromo-4-methylbenzaldehyde are placed in 150 ml of toluene in a round-bottomed flask and under nitrogen. 16.5 ml (300 mmol) of ethylene giycol and 571 mg (3 mmol) of para-toluenesulphonic acid are added. The mixture is refluxed for 36 hours and the water formed is separated out using Dean-Stark apparatus. At room temperature, the reaction medium is poured into saturated aqueous sodium hydrogen carbonate solution and then extracted with ether. The organic phase is dried over magnesium sulphate, filtered and evaporated. 13 g (89%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of a brown oil. (d) 5-[1,3]Dioxolan-2-yl-2~methylphenylboronic acid In a manner similar to that of Example 2(k), by reacting 11.1 g (46 mmol) of 2-(3-bromo-4-methylphenyl)[1,3]dioxolane with 12.3 ml (55 mmol) of triisopropy! borate, 6g (88%) of product are obtained in the form of an oil. (e) 6-Methyl-4'-propionyl-2'-propylbipheny/-3-carbaldehyde In 3 manner similar to that of Example 1(g), by reacting 2 g (6.2 mmol) of 4-propionyl-2-propylphenyl 1,1,1-trifluoromethanesulphonate with 1.2 g (8 mmol) of 5-[1,3]dioxolan-2-yl-2-methylphenylboronic acid, and after purification by chromatography on a column of silica eluted with a mixture of heptane and ethyl acetate (90/10), 1.42 g (78%) of product are obtained in the form of a pale yellow oil. (f) Dimethyl 4-bromometnylphthalate 10 g (44.6 mmol) of dimethyl 4-hydroxymethylphi.halaie obtained in 1(i) are placed in 75 ml of dichloromethane in a round-bottomed flask and under a stream of nitrogen. At 5°C, a solution of 2,1 ml (22 mmol) of phosphorous tribromide is added. 2 hours later, water is added slowly. After separation of the phases by settling, the aqueous phase is extracted with dichloromethane and the organic phases are combined, dried over magnesium sulphate, filtered and then evaporated. 8.8 g (69%) of the expected product ?re ootained in the form of a vellow oil. (a) Dimethyl 4-(diethoxyphcsphorylmethyl)phthalate 65.7 g (229 mmol) of dimethyl ^-bromomethylphthalate are placed in 100 ml (583 mmol) of triethyl phospnite in a round-bottomed flask. The mixture is refluxed for 4 hours. The medium is then distilled to remove the triethyl phosphite. 60.7 g (77%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of a yellow oil. (h) Dimethyl 4-[(Z)-2-(6-methyl-4'-propionyl-2'-propylbiphenyl-3-yl)vinyl]phthalate 2 g (6 mmol) of dimethyl 4-(diethoxyphosphorylmethyl)phthalate are placed in 50 ml of THF in a round-bottomed flask and under a stream of nitrogen. 3 ml of lithium diisopropylamide (2M/THF) are added, followed by addition of 1.42g (5 mmol) of 6-methyl-4'-propionyl-2'-propylbiphenyl-3-carbaldehyde. Stirring is continued for 3 days at room temperature. The reaction medium is then poured into water and extracted with ethyl acetate. The organic phase is dried over magnesium sulphate, filtered and tnen evaporated. The residue obtained is purified by chromatography on a column of silica eluted with a mixture of heptane and ethyl acetate (90/10). After evaporating off the solvents, 900 mg (39%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of a yellow oil. (!) Dimethyl 4-{(Z)-2-(4'-(2-ethy/[1,3]dioxolan-2-yl)-6-methyl-2'-propylbiphenyl-3-yl]viny/}- phthalate In a manner similar to that of Example 6(c), starting with 900 mg (1.9 mmol) of dimethyl 4-f(Z)-2-(6-methyl-4l-propionyl-2'-propylbiphenyl-3-yl)vinyl]phthalatel 700 mg (70%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of a yellow oil. (j) Dimethyl 4-{2-[4'-(2-ethyl[1,3]dioxoian-2-yl)-6-methyl-2'-propylbiphenyl-3-yl]ethyl}-phthalate 700 mg (1.3 mmol) of dimethyl 4-{(Z)-2-[4'-(2-ethyl[1,3]dioxoian-2-yl)-6-methyl-2'-propy!biphenyl-3-yl]vinyl}phthalate are placed in 15 ml of methanol, 15ml of ethyl acetate and 1 ml of triethylamine in a reactor. The reaction medium is degassed and 100 mg of palladium-on-charcoal (10%) and hydrogen to a pressure of 3.5 oar at 80°C are added. The reaction medium is filtered and evaporated to give 640 mg (93%) of the expected product in the form of an oil. (k) (4-{2-[4'-{2-Ethyl[1,3)dioxolan-2-yl)-6-methyl-2--propylbiphenyl-3-y/]ethyl}-2-hydroxymethylphenyl)methanol 182 mg (4.8 mmol) of lithiurr aluminium hydride are placed in 20 ml of dry THF in a round-bottomed flask and under nitrogen. At 0°C, a solution of 640 mg (1.2 mmol} of dimethyl 4-{2-[4'-(2-ethyl[1,3]dioxolan-2--yl)-6-methyl-2'-proDylbiphenyl-3-yl]ethyl}phthalate in 5 ml of THF is added dropwise. The reaction medium is stirred for 1 hour at room temperature. 200 ul of water are then added very slowly, followed by addition of 200 pi of 15% sodium hydroxide solution and then 600 pi of water. The medium is filtered and the filtrate is evaporated to dryness. 640 mg (100%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of a colourless oil. (I) 1-{5'-[2-(3,4-Bis(hydroxymethyl)phenyl)ethyl]-2'-methyl-2-propylbiphenyl-4-yl}propan-1-one 640 mg (1.4 mmol) of (4-{2-[4'-(2-ethyl[1,3]dioxolan-2-yl)-6-methyl-2'-propylbiphenyl-3-yl]ethyl}-2-hydroxymethy!phenyl)methanol are placed in 15 ml of acetone and 15 ml of water in a round-bottomed flask. A spatuia-tip of p-toluenesulphonic acid is added and the solution is refluxed for 2 hours 30 minutes. At room temperature, it is poured into saturated aqueous sodium hydrogen carbonate solution and extracted with ethyl acetate. The organic phase is dried over magnesium sulphate, filtered and then evaporated. The residue obtained is purified by chromatography on a column of silica eluted with a mixture of heptane and ethyl acetate (30/70). 300 mg (50%) of the expected product are obtained in the form of a colourless oil. (m) (4-{2-[4'-(l-Ethyl-1-hydroxypropyl)-6~methyl-2'-propylbiphenyl-3-yl]ethyl}-2- hydroxymethylphenyl)methanol In a manner similar to that of Example 1 (q), by reacting 300 mg (0.7 mmol) of 1 -{5'-[2-(3,4- bis(hydroxymethyl)phenyl)ethyl]-2'-methyl-2-propyIbiphenyl-4-yl}propan-1-one with 1.9 ml (5.6 mmol) of ethylmagnesium bromide (3M/ether), and after purification on a column of silica eluted with a mixture of heptane and ethyl acetate (40/60), 180 mg (56%) of (4-{2- [4'-(i-ethyl-l-hydroxypropyl)-6-methyl-2'-propylbiphenyl-3-yl]et,iyl}-2-hydroxy- methylDhenyl)methanol are obtained in the form of white crystals with a melting point of 76'C, EXAMPLE 6 : (4-[[4'-(1-Ethyl-1-hvdroxvpropVl)-6,2'-dimethylbiphenvl-3-Ylamino3-methyl>-2-hvdroxyrnethvlphenyl)methanol (a) 1 -(4-Bmmo-3~methylphenyl)propan-1-one 24.7 g (126 mmol) of 4-Dromo-3-methyIbenzonitrile are dissolved in 400 ml of anhydrous dioxane and the medium is then cooled to 0°C. 124 ml (372 mmol) of ethylmagnesium bromide are added dropwise and the medium is then warmed to room temperature and stirred for 4 hours. The reaction medium is treated with 250 ml of 3N HCI and tnen extracted with a water/ether mixture. A white solid is obtained after trituration from heptane (m = 14.5 g, Y = 52%). (b) 2-(4-Bromo-3-methyipheny/)-2-ethyl[1l3]dioxolane 13 g (57 mmol) of 1-(4-bromo-3-methyiphenyl)-1-propanone are dissolved in 130 ml of toluene, 54 ml (800 mmol) of ethylene glycol are added, followed by addition of 1.4 g (7.4 mmol) of para-toluenesulphonic acid. The medium is equipped with a distillation assembly of Dean-Stark type and heated at 125°C for 14 hours. After treatment with dilute sodium hydroxide solution, the organic phase is washed with water and concentrated under reduced pressure. A yellow oil is obtained (m = 13.6 g, Y = 88%). (c) 2-Methyl-4-propionyibenzeneboronic acid 16 g (65 mmol) of magnesium are suspended in 5 ml of THF and 0,5ml of 1,2-dibromoethane. One crystal of iodine is added. A solution of 13.6 g (50 mmol) of 2-(4-bromo-3-methylphenyl)-2-ethyl[1,3]dioxolane and 0.4 ml of 1,2-dibromoethane in 70 ml of THF is added slowly. The medium is refluxed for 45 minutes after the end of the addition and then cooled to -78CC. 6.2 ml (55 mmol) of trimethyl borate are added and the medium is maintained at this temperature for 45 minutes, 100 ml of 1N HCI are then added and the medium is warmed to room temperature. After separation of the phases by settling and concentration of the organic phase, the residue obtained is triturated from heptane: a beige-coloured solid is obtained (m = 5.1 g, Y = 54%), id) 1-(2,2'-Dimethyl-5'-nitrobiphenyl-4-yl)propan-1-one 2,5 g (13 mmo!) of 2-methyl-4-propionylbenzeneboronic acid are placed in 100ml of dmetnoxyethane in a round-bottomed flask, and 2.2 g (10 mmol) of 2-bromo-4-nitrotoluene and 13 ml of aqueous 2M potassium carbonate solution are added. The medium is degassed for 10 minutes with a flow of nitrogen, and 580 mg (0.5 mmol) of tetrakis(tripheny!phosphine)palladium are then added. The medium is stirred for 14 hours at 90°C and then worked up as usual. The residue is obtained after chromatography on a column of silica (eluent: 1 ethyl acetate/9 heptane) to give 2.3 g (81%) of the expected oroduct in the form of a yellow oil. (e) 1-(5 '-A mino-2,2 '-dimethylbiphenyl-4-y!)propan- 7 -on e 2,2 g (7.8 mmol) of 1-(2,2'-dirnethyl-5'-nitrobiphenyl-4-yl)-1-propanone are dissolved in a mixture of 80 ml of ethanol and 40 ml of water and 10 ml of acetic acid. The mixture is refluxed while 1.7 g (31 mmol) of iron powder are added. The medium is heated for 1 hour and then treated by addition of aqueous ammonia, cooled and filtered through Celite. The solution obtained is diluted in ethyl acetate and then washed with water, and the organic ohase is dried and concentrated under reduced pressure. After chromatography on a column of silica (eluent: 60 heptane/ 40 ethyl acetate), a yellow oil is obtained (m = 1,9 g ; Y = 96%). (f) Tort-butyl (6,2'-dimethyl-4'-propionylbiphenyl-3-yl)carbamate 800 mg (3.15 mmol) of 1-(5'-amino-2,2'-dimethylbiphenyl-4-yl)-l-propanone are dissolved in 50 ml of dichloromethane. 500 jml (3.5 mmol) of triethylamine are added, followed by addition of 760 mg (3.5 mmol) of di-tert-butyl dicarbonate. The medium is stirred at room temperature for 12 hours and then for 2 hours at 50°C. The medium is treated with water and the residue is then purified by chromatography on a column of silica (eluent: 3 heptane/1 ethyl acetate) to give a yellow crystalline solid (m.p. 119°C, m = 1.05 g, Y = 94%). (g) 2-Benzoyloxymethyl-5-{[tert-butoxycarbonyl(6,2'-dimethyl-4'-propionylbiphenyl-3-yl)- amino]methyl}benzy/ benzoate 900 mg (2.5 mmol) of tert-butyl (6,2'-dimethyl-4'-propionylbiphenyl-3-yl)carbamate are dissolved in 30 ml of dimethylformamide. 110 mg (2.8 mmol) of 60% sodium hydride are added and the medium is stirred for 15 minutes. 1.23 g (2,8 mmol) of 3,4-bis(benzoyloxymethyl)benzyl bromide are then added and the medium is stirred for 12 hours at room temperature, After the usual work-up, the residue obtained is purified by chrorratography on a column of silica (eluent: 8 heptane/2 ethyl acetate). A colourless oil is obta-ned (m = 1 g, Y = 55%). (h) 2-Benzoyloxymethyl-5-[(6,2'-dimethyl-4'-propionylbiphenyl-3-ylamino)me{hyl]benzyl benzoate 1 g (1.4 mmo!) of 2-benzoyloxymethyl-5-{[tert-butoxycarbonyl(6,21-dirnetnyl-4'-propionyl-biphenyl-3-yl)amino]methyl}benzyl benzoate are dissolved in 50 ml of dicnloromethane. 1,1 ml (14 mmol) of tr'rfluoroacetic acid are added and the medium is stirred at room temperature for 6 hours. After extraction with water/dichloromethane, the desired product is obtained in the form of a yellowish oil (m= 820 mg , Y = 95%). (7) 1-{5'-[3,4-Bis(hydroxymethyl)benzylam/no]-2,2'-dimethylbiphenyl-4-y/}-1-propanone 800 mg (1.3 mmol) of 2-benzoyloxymethyl-5-[(6,2'-dimethyl-4'-propionylbiphenyl-3-ylamino)methy!]benzyl benzoate are dissolved in methanolic 2% potassium carbonate solution and the medium is stirred for 1 hour.-After water/dichloromethane extraction, the residue obtained is purified by chromatography on silica gel (eluent: 30 heptane/70 ethyl acetate). A yellow oil is obtained (m = 470 mg, Y = 88%). (j) (4-{[4'-(1-Ethyl-1-hydroxypropy!)-6,2'-dimethylbiphenyl-3-y/amino]methy!}-2- hydroxymethylphenyl)methanol 450 mg (1,1 mmol) of 1-{5'-[3,4-bis(hydroxymethyl)benzylamino]-2,2'-dimethylbiphenyl-4-yl}-1-propanone are dissolved in 30 ml of THF. 1.5 ml (4.5 mmo!) of ethylmagnesium bromide are added and the medium is stirred at room temperature for 1 hour. After the usual work-up, the residue is purified by chromatography on silica gel (eluent: 1 heptane/1 ftthyl acetate). A white solid is obtained (m = 130 mg; Y = 27%). 'H NMR (CDCI3): 0.80 (t, 6H, J = 7.4 Hz); 1.85 (q, 4H, J = 7.5 Hz); 1.91 (s, 3H); 2.06 (s. 3H); 2.86 (bs, 2H); 4.30 (s, 2H); 4,72 (s, 2H); 4.73 (s, 2H); 6.45 (d, 1H, J = 2.4 Hz); 6.55 (dd, 1H, J1 = 2.4 Hz, J2 = 8.1 Hz); 7.04 (m, 2H); 7.15 (m, 1H); 7.24-7.37 (m, 4H). EXAMPLE 7: FORMULATIONS 1) ORAL ROUTE (a) The following composition is prepared in the form of a 0.2 g tablet Compound of Example 2 0.005 g Pregeiatimzed starch 0,065 g Macrocrystalline cellulose 0.075 g Lactose 0.050 g Magnesium slearate 0.005 g For the treatment of ichthyosis, 1 to 3 tablets per day are administered to an adult individual for 1 to 12 months depending on the seriousness of the case treated. (b) A drinkable suspension intended to be packaged in 5 ml ampules is prepared. Compound of Example 6 0,050 mg Glycerol 0.500 g 70% sorbitol 0.500 g Sodium saccharinate 0.010 g Methyl para-hydroxybenzoate 0.040 g Flavouring q.s. Purified water q.s 5 ml For the treatment of acne, 1 ampule per day is administered to an adult individual for 1 to 12 months depending on the seriousness of the case treated. (c) The following formulation intended to be packaged in gel capsules is prepared: Compound of Example 5 0.0001 mg Corn starch 0.060 g Lactose q.s 0.300 g The gel capsules used consist of gelatin, titanium oxide and a preserving agent. In the treatment of psoriasis, 1 gel capsule per day is administered to an adult individual for 1 to 12 months. (d) The following formulation intended to be packaged in gel capsules is prepared: Compound of Example 1 0,02 mg Cyclosponn 0.050 g Corn starch 0.060 g Lactose q.s 0.300 g The gel capsules used consist of gelatin, titanium oxide and a preserving agent. In the treatment of psoriasis. 1 gel capsule per day is administered to an adult individual for 1 to 12 months. 2) TOPICAL ROUTE (a) The nonionic water-in-oil cream below is prepared: Compound of Example 5 0.100 g Mixture of emulsifying lanolin alcohols, waxes and refined oils, sold by the company Beiersdorf under the name "Anhydrous eucerin" 39.900 g Methyl para-hydroxybenzoate 0.075 g Propyl para-hydroxybenzoate 0.075 g Sterile demineralized water q.s 100.000 g This cream is applied to skin afflicted with psoriasis 1 to 2 times a day for 1 to 12 months. (b) A gel is prepared by preparing the formulation below: Compound of Example 2 0.001 g Erythromycin base 4.000 g Butyhydroxytoluene 0.050 g Hydroxypropylcellulose sold by the company Hercules under the name "Klucel HF" 2.000 g Ethanol (at 95°) q.s 100.000 g This gel is applied to skin afflicted with dermatitis or with acne 1 to 3 times a day for 6 to 12 weeks depending on the severity of the case treated. (c) An antiseborrhoeic lotion is prepared by mixing together the following ingredients: Compound of Example 1 0,030 g Propylene glycol 5.000 g Butylhydroxytoluene 0.100 g Ethanol (at 95°) q.s 100.000 g This lotion is applied twice a day to a seborrhoeic scalp and a significant improvement is observed within a period of 2 to 6 weeks. (d) A cosmetic composition to combat the harmful effects of sunlight is prepared by mixing together the following ingredients: Compound of Example 3 1.000 g Benzylidenecamphor 4.000 g Fatty acid triglycerides 31.000 g Glyceryl monostearate 6.000 g Stearic acid 2.000 g Cetyl alcohol 1.200g Lanolin 4.000 g Preserving agents 0.300 g Propylene glycol 2.000 g Triethanolamine 0.500 g Fragrance .- 0.400 g Demineralized water q.s 100.000 g This composition is applied daily and helps to combat photo-induced ageing. (e) The oil-in-water cream below is prepared: Compound of Example 5 0.500 g Retinoicacid C.020 g Cetyl alcohol 4.000 g Glyceryl monostearate 2.500 g PEG-50 stearate 2.500 g Karite butter 9.200 g Propylene glycol 2.000 g Methyl para-hydroxybenzoate 0.075 g Propyl para-hydroxybenzoate 0.075 g Sterile demineralized water q.s 100.000 g T'lis cream is applied to skin afflicted with psoriasis 1 to 2 times a day for 30 days for an attacking treatment, and indefinitely for a maintenance treatment, f) A topical gel is prepared by mixing together the following ingredients: Compound of Example 2 0.050 g Ethanol 43.000 g a-Tocopherol 0.050 g Carboxyvinyl polymer sold under the name "Carbopol 941" by the company "Goodrich" 0.500 g Triethanolamine as an aqueous solution at 20% by weight 3.800 g Water 9.300 g P^opylene glycol q.s 1 00.000 g This gel is applied in the treatment of acne 1 to 3 times a day for 6 to 12 weeks deoending on the severity of the case treated. (g) A lotion for preventing hair loss and for promoting regrowth of the hair is prepared by mixing together the following ingredients: Compound of Example 4 0.05 g Compound sold under the name "Minoxidil" 1.00 g Propylene glycol 20.00 g Ethanol 34.92 g Polyethylene glycol (molecular mass = 400) 40.00 g Butylhydroxyanisole 0.01 g Butylhydroxytoluene 0.02 g Water q.s 100.00g This lotion is applied 1 to 2 times a day for 3 months to a scalp which has suffered hair loss, and indefinitely for a maintenance treatment. (h) An anti-acne cream is prepared by mixing together the following ingredients: Compound of Example 6 0.050 g Retmoic acid 0.010 g Mixture of glyceryl stearate and polyethylene glycol stearate (75 mol) sold under the name "Gelot 64" by the company "Gattefosse" 15.000g Polyoxyethylenated kernel oil containing 6 mol of ethylene oxide, sold under the name "Labrafil M2130 CS" by the company "Gattefosse" 8.000 g Perhydrosqualene 10.000 g Preserving agents q.s. Polyethylene glycol (molecular mass = 400) 8.000 g Disodium salt of ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid 0.050 g Purified water q.s 100.000 g This cream is applied to skin afflicted with dermatitis or acne 1 to 3 times a day for 6 to 12 weeks. (i) An oil-in-water cream is prepared by preparing the following formulation: Compound of Example 2 0.020 g Betamethasone 17-valerate 0.050 g S-carboxymethylcysteine 3.000 g . Polyoxyethylene stearate (40 mol of ethylene oxide) sold under the name "Myrj 52" by the company "Atlas" 4.000 g Sorbitan monolaurate polyoxyethylenated with 20 mol of ethyiene oxide, sold under the name "Tween 20" by the company "Atlas" 1.800 g Mixture of glyceryl mono- and distearate sold under the name "Geleol" by the company "Gattefosse" 4.200 g Propylene glycol 10.000 g Butylhydroxyanisole 0.010 g Butylhydroxytoluene 0.020g Cetostearyl alcohol 6.200 g Preserving agents q.s. Perhydrosqualene 18.000 g Mixture of caprylic/capric triglycerides sold under the name "Miglyol 812" by the company "Dynamit Nobel" 4.000 g Triethanolamine (99% by weight) 2.500 g Water q.s 100.000 g This cream is applied twice a day to skin afflicted with inflammatory dermatitis, for 30 days. (j) The oil-in-water cream below is prepared: Lactic acid 5,000 g Compound of Example 1 0.020 g Polyoxyethylene stearate (40 mol of ethylene oxide) sold under the name "Myrj 52" by the company "Atlas" 4.000 g Sorbitan monolaurate polyoxyethylenated with 20 mol of ethylene oxide, sold under the name "Tween 20" by the company "Atlas" 1.800 g Mixture of glyceryl mono- and distearate sold under the name "Geleol" by the comoany "Gattefosse" 4.200 a Propylene glyco! 10.000 g Butylhydroxyanisole 0.010 g Butylhydroxytoluene 0.020 g Cetostearyl alcohol 6.200 g Preserving agents q.s, Perhydrosqualene 18.000 g Mixture of caprylic/capric triglycerides sold under the name "Miglyol 812" by the company "Dynamit Nobel" 4.000 g Water q.s 100.000 g This cream is applied once a day, and helps to combat ageing, whether photo-induced or chronological, (k) The anhydrous ointment below is prepared: Compound of Example 5 5.000 g Liquid petroleum jelly 50.00 g Butylhydroxytoluene 0.050 g White petroleum jelly q.s. 100 g This ointment is applied twice a day for 30 days to skin afflicted with squamous dermatitis. 3) INTRALESIONAL ROUTE (a) The following composition is prepared: Compound of Example 1 0.002 g Ethyl oleate q.s. 10 g In the treatment of malignant melanoma, the composition is injected into an adult individual at a frequency of 1 to 7 times a week for 1 to 12 months. (b) The following composition is prepared: Compound of Example 2 0.050 g Olive oil q.s. 2 g In the treatment of basocellular carcinoma, the composition is injected into an adult individual at a frequency of 1 to 7 times a week for 1 to 12 months. (c) The following composition is prepared: Compound of Example 3 0.1 mg Sesame oil q.s, 2 g In the treatment of spinocellular carcinoma, the composition is injected into an adult individual at a frequency of 1 to 7 times a week for 1 to 12 months. (d) The following composition is prepared: Compound of Example 4 0.001 mg Methyl benzoate q.s. 10 g In the treatment of carcinoma of the colon, the composition is injected into an adult individual at a frequency of 1 to 7 times a week for 1 to 12 months. 4) INTRAVENOUS ROUTE (a) The injectable lipid emulsion below is prepared: Compound of Example 5 0.001 mg Soyabean oil 10.000 g Egg phospholipid 1.200 g Glycerol 2.500 g Water for injection q.s 100.000 g in the treatment of psoriasis, the composition is injected into an adult individual at a frequency of 1 to 7 times a week for 1 to 12 months. (b) The injectable lipid emulsion below is prepared: Compound of Example 6 0.010 g Cotton oil 10.000 g Soyabean lecithin 0.750 g Sorbitol 5.000 g DL, a-tocopherol 0.100 g Water for injection q.s 100.000 g in the treatment of ichthyosis, the composition is injected into an adult individual at a frequency of 1 to 7 times a week for 1 to 12 months. (c) The injectable lipid emulsion below is prepared: Compound of Example 1 0.00"! g Soyabean oil 15.000 g Acetylated monoglycerides 10.000 g Pluronic F-108 1.000 g Glycerol 2.500 g Water for injection q.s 100.000 g In the treatment of leukaemia, the composition is injected into an adult individual at a frequency of 1 to 7 times a week for 1 to 12 months. (d) The mixed micellar composition below is prepared: Compound of Example 2 0.001 g Lecithin 16.930g Glycocholic acid 8.850 g Water for injection q.s 100.000 g In the treatment of malignant melanoma, the composition is injected into an adult individual at a frequency of 1 to 7 times a week for 1 to 12 months. (e) The cyclodextrin composition below is prepared: Compound of Example 5 0.1 mg p-Cyclodextrin O.IOOg Water for injection q.s 10.000 g In the treatment of graft rejection, the composition is injected into an adult individual at a frequency of 1 to 7 times a week for 1 to 12 months. (f) The cyclodextrin composition below is prepared: Compound of Example 3 0.010 g 2-Hydroxypropyl-p-cydodextrin 0.100 g Water for injection q.s 10.000 g In the treatment of cancer of the kidney, the composition is injected into an adult individual at a frequency of 1 to 7 times a week for 1 to 12 months. EXAMPLE 8: Tests to evaluate the biological activity of the compounds of the invention - activity on the differentiation of HL60 cells Calcitrol induces the differentiation of promyeiocytic leukaemia ceils (HL60) into monocyles/macrophages. This differentiation-inductive effect is a well-characterized marker of cellular vitamin D. One of the most important antimicrobial products of macrophages is hydrogen peroxide, which may be analysed experimentally by the reduction of NBT (Nitroblue Tetrazolium). The method used is as follows: the HL60 cells are inoculated into 6-well plates and tnen treated immediately with a test compound. After culturing for 4 days, the cells are incubated with phorbol TPA ester and NBT for a short period and the differentiated cells, i.e. the ones that are positive to NBT, are counted. The differentiation-inductive effect on HL60 cells of the compounds according to the invention and also that of the reference compound, calcitriol, are given in Table I. The results show that the compounds of Examples 1 to 4 have differentiation-inducing activity on HL60 ceils similar to tnat of caicunol, the compound of Example 5 even having markedly superior activity. As regards the compound of Example 6, it shows less good activity compared with calcitriol, but nevertheless remains a very advantageous compound when compared with the compounds of the prior art. (Figure Remove) EXAMPLE 9: Tests to evaluate the biological activity of the compounds of the invention - measurement of the VDR agonist activity (AC50 hVDR) The VDR agonist activity of the compounds of the invention may be tested on the HeLa cell line by cotransfection of the expression vector of the human VDR receptor and of the reporter plasmid p240Hase-CAT which contains the region -1399 to +76 of rat 24-hydroxylase promoter, cloned upstream of the coding phase of the chloramphenicol-acetyltransferase (CAT) gene. 18 hours after cotransfection, the test compound is added to the medium. After treatment for 18 hours, the CAT activity of the cell lysates is assayed by means of an ELISA test (Enzyme Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay, sold by Roche Molecular Biochemicals). The agonist activity may be characterized in this system of cotransfection Dy determining the dose required to achieve 50% of the maximum activity of the test compound (AC50). Tne measurement of the VDR agonisl activity of the compounds according to the invention and also that of the reference compound, calcitriol, are given in Table II. These results show that the compounds according to the present invention have activities that are comparable to that of calcitriol, the compound of Example 5 having, in this case also, superior activity. These results once again show that the compound of Example 6 shows less good activity compared with calcitriol, but nevertheless remains a very advantageous compound when compared with the compounds of the prior art. (Figure Remove) EXAMPLE 10 : Tests to evaluate the biological activity of the compounds of the Invention - activity on the proliferation of human keratinocytes It is known that 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, known as calcitriol and corresponding to natural vitamin D, inhibits the proliferation of human keratinocytes in culture. The method used is as follows: normal human keratinocytes are inoculated at low density into a 24-wel! plate. After 4 hours, the test compounds are added to the culture medium. After culturing for 5 days, the proliferation of the keratinocytes is determined by incorporating 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU) into the DNA. The amount of 3rdU incorporated is then measured using the ELISA test (Enzyme Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay, sold by Roche Molecular Biochemicals). The inhibitory effect on keratinocyte proliferation of the compounds according to the invention and of calcitriol used as reference compound is summarized in Table III. The IC50 value indicates the concentration of the test compound for which the compound inhibits the proliferation of the keratinocytes by 50%. These results make it possible to show that the compounds of the invention have inhibitory activity on keratinocyte proliferation in the same ranges of values as calcitriol; the compound of Example 5 is distinguished by an activity more than 5 times greater than that of calcitriol. As regards the compound of Example 6, it shows less good activity compared with calcitriol. but nevertheless remains a very advantageous compound when compared with the compounds of the prior art. Measured activity IC50 - proliferation of KHNs (in nM) 15.3 (Figure Remove) We Claims 1. Triaromatic vitamin D analogues characterized in that they correspond to the general formula (I) below: (Formula Removed) in which: (1) -X-Y- represents -CH2-O-, R1 represents a methyl radical, R2 represents a propyl radical, and each R3 represents an ethyl radical; or (2) -X-Y- represents -CH2-O-, R1 represents an ethyl radical, R2 represents an ethyl radical, and each R3 represents an ethyl radical; or (lll) -X-Y- represents -CH2-O-, R1represents an ethyl radical, R2 represents a propyl radical, and each R3 represents an ethyl radical; or (IV) -X-Y- represents -CH2-O-, R1represents an ethyl radical, R2 represents an isopropyl radical, and each R3 represents an ethyl radical; or (V). -X-Y- represents -CH2-CH2-, R1 represents a methyl radical, R2 represents a propyl radical, and each R3 represents an ethyl radical; or represents -O-CH2-, R1 represents a methyl radical, R2 represents a propyl radical, and each R3 represents an ethyl radical; or (VII). -X-Y- represents -CH2-N(R4)-, R1 represents a methyl radical, R2 represents a propyl radical, each R3 represents an ethyl radical, and R4 represents a hydrogen atom; or (VIII) -X-Y- represents -CH2-N(R4)-, R1 represents a methyl radical, R2 represents a propyl radical, each R3 represents an ethyl radical, and R4 represents a methyl radical; or (ix) -X-Y - represents -CH2-N(R4)-, R1 represents a methyl radical, R2 represents a propyl radical, each R3 represents an ethyl radical, and R, represents an ethyl radical; or (x) -X-Y- represents -CH2-N(R4)-, R1 represents a methyl radical, R2 represents a propyl radical, each R3 represents an ethyl radical, and R4 represents a propyl radical; or (xi) 11. -X-Y- represents -CH2-CH2-, R1 represents a methyl radical, R2 represents a propyl radical, and each (xii) -X-Y- represents -CH2-O-, R1 represents a methyl radical, R2 represents a propyl radical, and each R3 represents a trifluoromethyl radical; or (xlll). -X-Y- represents -O-CH2-, R1 represents a methyl radical, R2 represents a propyl radical, and each R3 represents a trifluoromethyl radical; or (XIV)-X-Y- represents -CH2-N(R4)-, R1 represents a methyl radical, R2 represents a propyl radical, each R3 represents a trifluoromethyl radical, and R4 represents a hydrogen atom; or (XV) 15. -X-Y- represents -CH2-N(R4)-, R1represents a methyl radical, R2 a propyl radical, each R3 represents a trifluoromethyl radical, and R4 represents a methyl radical; or (XVI) 16. -X-Y- represents -CH2-N(R4)-, R1 represents a methyl radical, R2 represents a propyl radical, each R3 represents a trifluoromethyl radical, and R4 represents an ethyl radical; or (XVII)17 -X-Y- represents -CH2-N(R4)-, R1 represents a methyl radical, R2 represents a propyl radical, each R3 represents a trifluoromethyl radical, and R4 represents a propyl radical; or (XVIII) 18. -X-Y- represents -CH2-CH2-, R1 represents an ethyl radical, R2 represents a propyl radical, and each R3 represents an ethyl radical; or (XIX) 19. -X-Y- represents -O-CH2-, R1 represents an ethyl radical, R2 represents a propyl radical, and each R3 represents an ethyl radical; or (XX) 20. -X-Y- represents -CH2-N(R4)-, R1 represents an ethyl radical, R2 represents a propyl radical, R3 represents an ethyl radical, and R, represents a hydrogen atom; or XXI 21. -X-Y- represents -CH2-N(R4)-, R1 represents an ethyl radical, R2 represents a propyl radical, each R3 represents an ethyl radical, and R4 represents a methyl radical; or XXII 22. -X-Y- represents -CH2-N(R4)-, R1 represents an ethyl radical, R2 represents a propyl radical, each R3 represents an ethyl radical, and R4 represents an ethyl radical; or XXIII 23. -X-Y- represents -CH2-N(R4)-, R1 represents an ethyl radical, R2 represents a propyl radical, each R3 represents an ethyl radical, and R4 represents a propyl radical; or XXIV 24. -X-Y- represents -CH2-CH2-, R1 represents an ethyl radical, R2 represents a propyl radical, and each R3 represents a trifluoromethyl radical; or XXV 25. -X-Y- represents -CH2-O-, R1 represents an ethyl radical, R2 represents a propyl radical, and each R3 represents a trifluoromethyl radical; or XXVI 26. -X-Y- represents -O-CH2-, R1represents an ethyl radical, R2 represents a propyl radical, and each R3 represents a trifluoromethyl radical; or XXVII 27. -X-Y- represents -CH2-N(R4)-, R1 represents an ethyl radical, R2 represents a propyl radical, each R3 represents a trifluoromethyl radical, and R4 represents a hydrogen atom; or XXVIII -X-Y- represents -CH2-N(R4)-, R1 represents an ethyl radical, R2 represents a propyl radical, each R3 represents a trifluoromethyl radical, and R4 represents a methyl radical; or XXII-29. -X-Y- represents -CH2-N(R4)-, R1represents an ethyl radical, R2 represents a propyl radical, each R3 represents a trifluoromethyl radical, and R4 represents an ethyl radical; or XXX 30. -X-Y- represents -CH2-N(R4)-, R1represents an ethyl radical, R2 represents a propyl radical, each R3 represents a trifluoromethyl radical, and R4 represents a propyl radical; or XXXI31. -X-Y- represents -CH2-N(R4)-, R1 represents a methyl radical, R2 represents a methyl radical, each R3 represents an ethyl radical, and R, represents a hydrogen atom. 2. A compound as claimed in claim 1, wherein the said compound is used for the manufacture of a medical product, intended for the treatment of: (i) dermatological complaints associated with a differentiation or proliferation disorder of keratinocytes or sebocytes such as common acne, comedones, polymorphonuclear leukocytes, acne rosacea, nodulocystic acne, acne conglobata, senile acne and secondary acnes such as solar acne, acne medicamentosa or occupational acne; (11)- keratinization disorders such as ichthyosis, ichthyosiform states, Darier's disease, palmoplantar keratoderma, leukoplakia and leukoplakiform conditions, and cutaneous or mucous (buccal) lichen; (III) dermatological complaints associated with a keratinization disorder with an inflammatory and/or immunallergic component such as psoriasis, whether cutaneous, mucous or ungual psoriasis, psoriatic rheumatism, and cutaneous atopy, such as eczema or respiratory atopy or gingival hypertrophy; (IV)inflammatory complaints not showing a keratinization disorder; (v)dermal or epidermal proliferations which may be benign or malignant, of non-viral origin or of viral origin, such as common warts, flat warts and verruciform epidermodysplasia, and oral or florid papillomatoses, and in that the proliferations may be induced by ultraviolet radiation, especially in the case of basocellular and spinocellular epithelioma; (V1) dermatological disorders such as bullous dermatoses and collagen diseases; (VII) ageing of the skin, whether photo-induced or chronological ageing, or for reducing actinic keratoses and pigmentations, or any cutaneous pathologies associated with chronological or 35 actinic ageing; (VIII)- cicatrization disorders and stretch marks; (IX)sebaceous function disorders such as acneic hyperseborrhoea or simple seborrhoea or alternatively seborrhoeic eczema; and/or (X) -dermatological complaints with an immunological component. 3. Pharmaceutical composition, characterized in that it comprises, in a pharmaceutically 5 acceptable support, at least one of the compounds as defined in claim 1, in a concentration of between 0.001% and 5% by weight relative to the total weight of the composition. 4. Pharmaceutical composition as claimed in claim 3, wherein said pharmaceutically acceptable support is a cosmetically acceptable support, and wherein the composition comprises 10 at least one of the compounds as defined in claim 1, in a concentration of between 0.001% and 3% by weight relative to the total weight of the composition.

Documents:

1969-DELNP-2004-Abstract-(17-02-2009).pdf

1969-DELNP-2004-Abstract-(24-10-2008).pdf

1969-delnp-2004-abstract.pdf

1969-DELNP-2004-Claims-(13-03-2009).pdf

1969-DELNP-2004-Claims-(17-02-2009).pdf

1969-DELNP-2004-Claims-(24-10-2008).pdf

1969-delnp-2004-claims.pdf

1969-delnp-2004-complete specification (granted).pdf

1969-DELNP-2004-Correspondence-Others-(12-03-2009).pdf

1969-DELNP-2004-Correspondence-Others-(13-03-2009).pdf

1969-DELNP-2004-Correspondence-Others-(24-10-2008).pdf

1969-delnp-2004-correspondence-others.pdf

1969-delnp-2004-description (complete)(17-02-2009).pdf

1969-DELNP-2004-Description (Complete)-(24-10-2008).pdf

1969-delnp-2004-description (complete).pdf

1969-DELNP-2004-Drawings-(24-10-2008).pdf

1969-delnp-2004-drawings.pdf

1969-DELNP-2004-Form-1-(17-02-2009).pdf

1969-DELNP-2004-Form-1-(24-10-2008).pdf

1969-delnp-2004-form-1.pdf

1969-delnp-2004-form-18.pdf

1969-DELNP-2004-Form-2-(17-02-2009).pdf

1969-DELNP-2004-Form-2-(24-10-2008).pdf

1969-delnp-2004-form-2.pdf

1969-DELNP-2004-Form-3-(24-10-2008).pdf

1969-delnp-2004-form-3.pdf

1969-delnp-2004-form-5.pdf

1969-DELNP-2004-GPA-(12-03-2009).pdf

1969-delnp-2004-gpa.pdf

1969-delnp-2004-pct-210.pdf

1969-delnp-2004-pct-409.pdf

1969-DELNP-2004-Petition-137-(24-10-2008).pdf

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