| abstract |
This invention provides caspase inhibitors having the formula (I): wherein R<1> is CO2H, CH2CO2H, or esters, amides or isosteres thereof; R<2> and R<3> are each independently selected from hydrogen or an optionally substituted C1-C6 aliphatic group; and R<4> and R<5> are each independently selected from hydrogen, an optionally substituted C1-C6 aliphatic group, or R<4> and R<5> taken together with the ring to which they are attached form an optionally substituted bicyclic ring. The caspase inhibitors are useful for treating a number of diseases such as cancer, acute inflammatory and autoimmune disorders, ischemic diseases and certain neurodegenerative disorders. |