This invention provides a class of compounds which are useful for specifically inhibiting cyclin-dependent kinases. This class of compounds finds use in treating diseases resulting from inappropriate activity of cyclin-dependent kinases, including cancer, viral infections (e.g., HIV) neurodegenerative disorders (e.g. Alzheimer's disease), and cardiovascular disorders (e.g. atherosclerosis). Moreover, certain members of this class are particularly useful for inhibiting cyclin-dependent kinase 7 and are especially useful for the treatment of breast cancer.