Provided are novel low molecular weight compounds for suppressing the inductive production of MMPs especially MMP 9 rather than the constitutive production of MMP 2. The present invention pertains to compounds represented by formula (I): (each of the symbols in the formula is as described in the specification). These compounds have a selective inhibitory effect on MMP 9 production and are useful as agents for the prevention and/or treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases inflammatory bowel diseases (ulcerative colitis Crohns disease) and osteoarthritis.
