Alkanoic acid derivatives of formula (1) are described:
Ar
1
(Alk
a
)
r
L
1
Ar
2
CH(R
1
)C(R
a
)(R
a′
)R (1)
Ar
1
is an optionally substituted aromatic or heteroarotic group;
L
1
is a covalent bond or a linker atom or group;
Ar
2
is an optionally substituted phenylene or nitrogen-containing six-membered heteroarylene group;
R is a carboxylic acid (—CO
2
H) or a derivative thereof;
and the salts, solvates, hydrates and N-oxides thereof.
The compounds are able to inhibit the binding of α4 integrins to their ligands and are of use in the prophylaxis and treatment of immune or inflammatory disorders.