Peptidomimetics are compounds which mimic the biological activity of peptides while offering the advantages of increased bioavailability, biostability, bioefficiency, and bioselectivity against the natural biological target of the parent peptide. Examples of peptidomimetics have been isolated as natural products, synthesized as libraries from novel subunits, and designed on the basis of X-ray crystallographic studies and through an intricate knowledge of the biological mode of action of natural peptides. They offer challenging synthetic targets and are increasingly important medicinal agents and biological probes. As a consequence, peptidomimetics embrace much of what is modern medicinal and organic chemistry. This volume highlights some recent and exciting developments in the area.
