Ilomastat (also known as galardin or GM 6001) is a broad-spectrum matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor. It is a member of the hydroxamic acid class of reversible metallopeptidase inhibitors. The hydroxamic acid binds the catalytic zinc(2+) ion in a bidentate manner, blocking substrate access to the active site and rendering the metal incapable of peptide hydrolysis. Preclinical studies have shown that ilomastat can inhibit conjunctival scarring after glaucoma filtration surgery in rabbits, in lens capsules following simulated cataract surgery, and in models of vitreoretinal contraction.