WO2008052638 describes the identification and synthesis of diazepane- acetamide derivatives as a novel class of selective small molecule inhibitors of 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11beta-HSD1) for the treatment of metabolic syndrome. The generic structure of the disclosed diazepane-acetamide derivatives offers considerable possibilities for modifications that allow optimizing compound properties. Further studies to assess target selectivity, species-specificity, modulation of tissue-specific functions of 11beta-HSD1 as well as interference with alternative functions of this enzyme are needed to explore the therapeutic potential of these chemicals.