Peptide Bond Modification for Metal Coordination: 3. Metal-Binding Properties of Phosphorus-Based Pseudo-peptides

Introduction Phosphorus-based peptidomimetics have been attractive target compounds during research and development of metalloproteinase inhibitors [1]. Their inhibiting activities are thought to be associated with mimicry of the metal-mediated transition state or tetrahedral-intermediate of the amide hydrolysis [2]. Because of the important roles of metal ions in the structures and functions of metalloproteinases, we envision that systematic investigation of the metal binding properties of phosphorus-based peptidomimetics should provide better understanding of their mechanism of action and assist the rational design of potent and specific inhibitors.