Molecular mimics of Smac are capable of modulating
apoptosis through their interaction with cellular IAPs (
inhibitor of apoptosis proteins). The mimetics are based on a
monomer or
dimer of the N-terminal
tetrapeptide of IAP-binding proteins, such as Smac / DIABLO, Hid, Grim and
Reaper, which interact with a specific surface groove of IAP. Also disclosed are methods of using these peptidomimetics for therapeutic purposes. In various embodiments of the invention the
Smac mimetics of the invention are combined with chemotherapeutic agents, including, but not limited to
topoisomerase inhibitors,
kinase inbhibitors, NSAIDs, taxanes and
platinum containing compounds use broader language.