Pseudo-peptides in Drug Discovery

Peptides are among the most versatile bioactive molecules, yet the do not make good drugs, because they are quickly degraded or modified in the body.<br> To overcome this problem, stable and at the same time biologically active pseudo-peptides have been developed. These novel compounds open up new perspectives in drug design by providing an entire range of highly specific and non-toxic pharmaceuticals.<br> This is the first work devoted to the topic and draws together knowledge gained on different types of peptidomimetics and other pseudo-peptides with drug properties. As such, it includes peptoids, beta-peptides, polyamide DNA binders as well as peptide nucleic acids.<br> The expert authors and editor discuss chemical properties and stability, biological activity and reactivity, as well as practical aspects of synthesis, making this a prime resource for drug developers and bioorganic chemists working with these compounds.