Abstract: A sustained-release preparation which comprises a physiologically active peptide of general formula ##STR1## wherein X represents an acyl group; R.sub.1, R.sub.2 and R.sub.4 each represents an aromatic cyclic group; R.sub.3 represents a D-amino acid residue or a group of the formula ##STR2## wherein R.sub.3 ' is a heterocyclic group; R.sub.5 represents a group of the formula --(CH.sub.2).sub.n --R.sub.5 ' wherein n is 2 or 3, and R.sub.5 ' is an amino group which may optionally be substituted, an aromatic cyclic group or an O-glycosyl group;R.sub.6 represents a group of the formula --(CH.sub.2).sub.n --R.sub.6 ' wherein n is 2 or 3, and R.sub.6 ' is an amino group which may optionally be substituted;R.sub.7 represents a D-amino acid residue or an azaglycyl residue; andQ represents hydrogen or a lower alkyl group, or a salt thereof and a biodegradable polymer having a terminal carboxyl group.

Abstract: Novel peptidyl derivatives of formula I are found to be potent inhibitors of interleukin-1.beta. converting enzyme (ICE). Compounds of formula I may be useful in the treatment of inflammatory or immune-based diseases of the lung and airways; central nervous system and surrounding membranes; the eyes and ears; joints, bones, and connective tissues; cardiovascular system including the pericardium; the gastrointestinal and urogenital systems; the skin and mucosal membranes. Compounds of formula I are also useful in treating the complications of infection (e.g., gram negative shock) and tumors in which IL 1 functions as an autocrine growth factor or as a mediator of cachexia.