Synthesis and structure-activity relationships of β- and α-piperidine sulfone hydroxamic acid matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors with oral antitumor efficacy

α-Piperidine-β-sulfone hydroxamate derivatives were explored that are potent for matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)-2, -9, and -13 and are sparing of MMP-1. The investigation of the β-sulfones subsequently led to the discovery of hitherto unknown α-sulfone hydroxamates that are superior to the corresponding β-sulfones in potency for target MMPs, selectivity vs MMP-1, and exposure when dosed orally. α-Piperidine-α-sulfone hydroxamate 35f (SC-276) was advanced through antitumor and antiangiogenesis assays and was selected for development. Compound 35f demonstrates excellent antitumor activity vs MX-1 breast tumor in mice when dosed orally as monotherapy or in combination with paclitaxel.