Nitric oxide synthase inhibitors containing the carboxamidine group or its isosteres

The review summarises structures, activities and selectivity of NO-synthase (NOS) inhibitors belonging to various classes of chemical compounds. Linear, cyclic and heterocyclic structures containing guanidine, amidine and/or isothiourea fragments are considered. The structure–activity relationships for these inhibitors were analysed in relation to their action on the inducible NOS isoform. This analysis can provide the basis for the synthesis of new more efficient compounds.