Abstract: Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a group of enzymes that have been implicated in the pathological destruction of connective tissue and basement membranes. These zinc containing endopeptidases consist of several subsets of enzymes including collagenases, stromelysins and gelatinases. TNF-&agr; converting enzyme (TACE), a pro-inflmatory cytokine, catalyzes the formation of TNF-&agr; from membrane bound TNF-&agr; precursor protein. It is expected that small molecule inhibitors of MMPs and TACE therefore have the potential for treating a variety of disease states.

Abstract: Dry powder formulations of drugs such as antihistamine for nasal administration are provided where the drug is retained in the nasal cavity, and systemic side effects minimized or eliminated, through the selection of a narrow particle size range, between approximately 10 and 20 microns in diameter. In a preferred embodiment wherein the drug is an antihistamine, retention of the antihistamine at the nasal mucosa is improved and the bitter aftertaste associated with liquid antihistamine formulations significantly reduced. By making a dry powder formulation of an antihistamine (e.g., azelastine) having an average particle size of between 10 and 20 microns, the antihistamine is restricted primarily to the desired target organ, the nasal mucosa. Because the active ingredient stays in the nasal region, a lower dose can be used to achieve the same desired effect.

Abstract: Glutamate receptor function in a mammal may be potentiated using an effective amount of a compound of formula

Abstract: Novel compositions comprising heterocyclic hydroxamic acid derivatives of the general formula: These compounds are useful in the treatment of diseases and conditions in which matrix metalloproteinases are involved, such as cancer, arthritis, tumor metastasis and multiple sclerosis (MS).

Abstract: Amide derivatives are selective &bgr;3 adrenergic receptor agonists with very little &bgr;1 and &bgr;2 adrenergic receptor activity and as such the compounds are capable of increasing lipolysis and energy expenditure in cells. The compounds thus have potent activity in the treatment of Type II diabetes and obesity. The compounds can also be used to lower triglyceride levels and cholesterol levels or raise high density lipoprotein levels or to decrease gut motility. In addition, the compounds can be used to reduced neurogenic inflammation or as antidepressant agents. Compositions and methods for the use of the compounds in the treatment of diabetes and obesity and for lowering triglyceride levels and cholesterol levels or raising high density lipoprotein levels or for increasing gut motility are also disclosed.

Abstract: Novel peptide derivatives, compositions containing them, and their use for treating medical disorders resulting from a deficiency in growth hormone are disclosed. The peptides have the formula (1): wherein a, b, A, R1, L1, D, R3, R4, R2, L2, E and G are as defined in the specification. These peptides exhibit improved resistance to proteolytic degradation, and hence, improved bioavailability.

Abstract: Aminoguanidine and alkoxyguanidine compounds, including compounds of the formula: wherein X is O or NR9 and R114 R4, R6-R9, R11, R12, Ra, Rb, Rc, Y, Z, n and mare set forth in the specification, as well as hydrates, solvates or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, that inhibit proteolytic enzymes such as thrombin are described. Also described are methods for preparing the compounds of Formula I. The novel compounds of the present invention are potent inhibitors of proteases, especially trypsin-like serine proteases, such as chymotrypsin, trypsin, thrombin, plasmin and factor Xa. Certain of the compounds exhibit antithrombotic activity via direct, selective inhibition of thrombin, or are intermediates useful for forming compounds having antithrombotic activity.

Abstract: This invention relates to certain novel compounds and derivatives thereof, their synthesis, and their use as vitronectin receptor antagonists. The vitronectin receptor antagonist compounds of the present invention are &agr;v&bgr;3 antagonists, &agr;v&bgr;5 antagonists or dual &agr;v&bgr;3/&agr;v&bgr;5 antagonists useful for inhibiting bone resorption, treating and preventing osteoporosis, and inhibiting restenosis, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, angiogenesis, atherosclerosis, inflammation and tumor growth.

Abstract: Novel compounds, their salts and compositions related thereto having activity against mammalian factor Xa are disclosed. The compounds are useful in vitro or in vivo for preventing or treating coagulation disorders.