Improved separation of sterols by column chromatography.

Some closely related sterols have been separated on columns of neutral alumina-Super-Cel impregnated with silver nitrate. Most notable are the separations of some Delta(8)-sterols from their Delta(7)-isomers, separations which have been difficult, if not impossible, to achieve with other published column chromatographic methods.

Thin-layer chromatography of sterols on neutral alumina impregnated with silver nitrate.

Thin-layer chromatography for the rapid separation of several sterols on neutral alumina impregnated with silver nitrate is described. The method is particularly effective for sterols that differ in the number and location of olefinic bonds.