Matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors

In these three closely related patent applications, Chiroscience discloses a series of di- and tri-peptidyl compounds containing an α-mercaptoacyl zinc binding group as well as a series of peptidyl compounds lacking the thiol group. The compounds are claimed to be inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and of tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) release and, as such, are claimed to be of therapeutic value in a wide range of diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and cancer metastasis or invasion. The current applications contain no in vitro or in vivo data to support any of the above claims.