Design, synthesis, activity, and structure of a novel class of matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors containing a heterocyclic P-2'-P-3' amide bond isostere

A novel series of hydroxamate-based inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases containing benzimidazole and imidazole heterocycles as amide bond isosteres have been prepared. Potent inhibition (in the low nanomolar range) and selectivity (> 100-fold) can be attained with inhibitors containing only one amide bond. X-ray crystal structures of matrilysin (MMP-7) with two different inhibitors bound confirm that imidazole is an excellent amide bond isostere. Copyright (C) 1996 Elsevier Science Ltd