| abstract |
Compounds useful as cytoprotective agents of formula (I), wherein z =(a) and (b); n = 0-12; m = 0-12; X = nothing, NR1, O, or S(O)n'; provided that when X = NR1, O, or S(O)n', then m>0 and n>0; n' = 0-2; R1 = H, C1-C6 alkyl; R = OH or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, C1-C6 alkoxyl, amino, mono- or dialkylamino where the alkyl has from 1 to 4 carbon atoms, or a radical of an amino acid of the formula: -NH-(CH2)n-CH(R2) CO-R3; R2 = H, C1-C4 alkyl, optionally substituted by hydroxy, SH, SCH3, or (un)substituted phenyl; and R3 = OH, C1-C6 alkoxyl, amino, or mono- or dialkyl amino where the alkyl has from 1 to 4 carbon atoms. The compounds possess dual activity, containing a phenolic portion selected to have antioxidant or free radical scavenging properties and a thiazolidine-4-carboxylate portion selected for its potential to act as a cysteine prodrug. |