Structure-based design and synthesis of cathepsin K inhibitors

摘要

Cathepsin K appears to be the major enzyme responsible for organic matrix degradation during bone resorption by the osteoclasts.Succcessful inhibition of the enzyme holds great promise for the treatment of osteoporosis.We have shown previously that human cystatin C,the natural thioprotease inhibitor present in most tissues,strongly inhibits mineral mobilization and bone matrix degradation [1].