CASPASE INHIBITORS AND USES THEREOF

摘要

This invention provides compounds of formula (I): wherein Z is oxygen or sulfu; R<1> is hydrogen, -CHN2, R, CH2OR, CH2SR, or -CH2Y; --- next to R<3> represents a single or double bond; Y is an electronegative leaving group; R<2> is CO2H, CH2CO2H, or esters, amides or isosteres thereof; R<3> is a group capable of fitting into the S2 subsite or a caspase enzyme; R<4> is hydrogen or C1-6alkyl or R<3>and R<4> taken together form a ring; Ring A and Ring B are each heterocyclic rings, and R and R<5> are as described in the specification. The compounds are effective inhibitors of apoptosis and IL-1 beta secretion.