A prostaglandin-F(1)alpha methyl ester derivative (12) possessing three dif
ferent protecting groups on the hydroxy units was prepared so as to allow s
elective removal of the group attached to the 11-OH group. Compound (12) wa
s converted into prostaglandin-J(1) methyl ester (16) in two steps (77% ove
rall yield). Prostaglandin-J(1) methyl ester showed potent activity against
Sendai virus.