Inhibitors for matrix metalloproteases, pharmaceutical compositions containing them, and a process for using them to treat a variety of physiological conditions. The compounds of the invention have the generalized formula(T).sub.x A--B--D--E--Gwherein A and B are aryl or heteroaryl rings; each T is a substituent group; x is 0, 1, or 2; the group D represents ##STR1## the group E represents a three carbon chain bearing one to three substituent groups which are independent or are involved in ring formation, possible structures being shown in the text and claims; and the group G represents --M, ##STR2## in which M represents --CO.sub.2 H, --CON(R.sup.11).sub.2, or --CO.sub.2 R.sup.12 ; andR.sup.13 represents any of the side chains of the 19 noncyclic naturally occurring amino acids, and include pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof.