Abstract: This present invention discloses inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases, and novel methods of their use. The inhibitors may be useful for treating conditions that involve enhanced activity of at least one of the matrix metalloproteinases neutrophil collagenase (MMP-8), aggrecanase, hADAMTS1, and gelatinase A (MMP-2). Such disorders may include, but are not limited to, degenerative joint disorders (e.g., osteoarthroses), spondyloses, chondrolysis associated with joint trauma or prolonged joint immobilization (often occurring after meniscus or patellar injuries or ligament tears), connective tissue disorders (e.g., collagenoses), wound healing disturbances, periodontal disorders, chronic disorders of the locomotor system (e.g., inflammatory, immunologically, or metabolism-related acute and chronic arthritides), arthropathies, myalgias, or disturbances of bone metabolism.