Picking the S1, S1′ and S2′ pockets of matrix metalloproteinases. A niche for potent acyclic sulfonamide inhibitors

A series of acyclic hydroxamic acids harboring strategically placed α-arylsulfonamido and thioether groups was synthesized and found to be potent inhibitors of various MMPs. An unprecedented cleavage of t-butyl hydroxamates to hydroxamic acids was found.