Imidazole and benzimidazole caspase inhibitors and uses thereof

摘要: This invention provides caspase inhibitors having the formula (I): wherein R1 is CO?2?H, CH2CO2H, or esters, amides isosteres thereof; R?2 and R3? are each independently selected from hydrogen an optionally substituted C?1?-C6 aliphatic group; R?4 R5? hydrogen, C1-C6 group, taken together with ring to which they attached form bicyclic ring. The useful for treating a number of diseases such as cancer, acute inflammatory autoimmune disorders, ischemic certain neurodegenerative disorders.