Abstract: Compounds of the formula; are useful for inhibiting matrix metalloproteinase enzymes in animals, and as such, prevent and treat diseases resulting from the breakdown of connective tissues. Also disclosed are methods for the preparation of such compounds, pharmaceutical compositions including the same, and methods of treating diseases in which matrix metalloproteinases are involved including multiple sclerosis, atherosclerotic plaque rupture, restenosis, aortic aneurysm, heart failure, periodontal disease, corneal ulceration, burns, decubital ulcers, chronic ulcers or wounds, cancer metastasis, tumor angiogenesis, osteoporosis, rheumatoid or osteoarthritis, renal disease, left ventricular dilation, or other autoimmune or inflammatory diseases dependent upon tissue invasion by leukocytes.