The present invention relates to novel classes of compounds which are
inhibitors of interleukin-1.beta. converting enzyme. The ICE inhibitors
of this invention are characterized by specific structural and
physicochemical features. This invention also relates to pharmaceutical
compositions comprising these compounds. The compounds and pharmaceutical
compositions of this invention are particularly well suited for
inhibiting ICE activity and consequently, may be advantageously used as
agents against IL-1-, apoptosis-, IGIF-, and IFN-.gamma.-mediated
diseases, inflammatory diseases, autoimmune diseases, destructive bone
disorders, proliferative disorders, infectious diseases, degenerative
diseases, and necrotic diseases. This invention also relates to methods
for inhibiting ICE activity, for treating interleukin-1-, apoptosis-,
IGIF- and IFN-.gamma.-mediated diseases and decreasing IGIF and
IFN-.gamma. production using the compounds and compositions of this
invention. This invention also relates to methods for preparing
N-acylamino compounds.
