Sterane
![Numbering of the C atoms. In steranes the side chain at C-17 varies.](/Images/godic/202502/13/Steroid-nomenclature.svg1131.png")
Sterane (cyclopentanoperhydrophenanthrenes or cyclopentane perhydro phenanthrene) compounds are a class of 4-cyclic compounds derived from steroids or sterols via diagenetic and catagenetic degradation and saturation. Steranes have an androstane skeleton with a side chain at carbon C-17. The sterane structure constitutes the core of all sterols. Steranes are sometimes used as biomarkers for the presence of eukaryotic cells.