C07D263/18

NEPRILYSIN INHIBITORS

In one aspect, the invention relates to compounds having the formula:

##STR00001##

where R.sup.1-R.sup.6, a, b, Z, and X are as defined in the specification, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. These compounds have neprilysin inhibition activity. In another aspect, the invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds; methods of using such compounds; and processes and intermediates for preparing such compounds.