| abstract |
Optically pure α-ketoamide compounds, and use therefor in treating neurodegenerative pathologies having enhanced Calpain activity, are disclosed. These compounds comprise optically pure α-ketoamides, and physiologically acceptable salts thereof, wherein the α-ketoamide contains an amino acid isomer which has an L-configuration about the chiral center which is structurally located in the α position to the ketone of the α-ketoamide, and wherein the amide functionality of the α-ketoamide portion of the compound's molecule is derived from an amine of an amino acid or an amine substituted with a sulfone functionality. The method of treating a human neurodegenerative pathology, having enhanced Calpain activity, with a Calpain inhibitor composition while reducing undesirable inhibition of other cysteine proteases andother side effects associated with the racemic Calpain inhibitor composition includes administering an optically pure L-isomer of an α-ketoamide compound, wherein the L-isomer is substantially free of its D-isomer. The method of forming an optically pure L-α-ketoamide includes mixing an L-β-amino-α-hydroxyamide in a solution containing a free radical catalyst and then mixing an oxydizing agent into said solution under conditions sufficient to form said optically pure L-α-ketoamide. |