Definition of peptide inhibitors from a synthetic peptide library by targeting gelatinase B/matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and TNF-α converting enzyme (TACE/ADAM-17).

Gelatinase B/matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) is a regulatory and effector metalloproteinase in inflammation. TNF-α is an important proinflammatory cytokine and is released by the action of a Zn(2+)-containing converting enzyme (TACE/ADAM-17). Both metallo-enzymes play important roles during the development of shock syndromes. Combinatorial chemical synthesis and subsequent library deconvolution were previously used to define a peptide inhibitor (Regasepin1) acting, almost to the same degree, on neutrophil collagenase/MMP-8 and MMP-9 in vitro, and protecting mice against lethal endotoxinemia in vivo. We have now extended this approach by incorporating D-form amino acids and residues preferred by TACE. A new peptide library was designed and synthesized, and by deconvolution new peptide inhibitors were defined. These included a TACE-specific inhibitor, an MMP-9- specific inhibitor, and inhibitors for both enzymes.