-Lactams, a well known class of antibiotics, have been investigated as inhibitors of the disruptive protease released by inflammatory cells, leukocyte elastase (LE). We have synthesized a new -lactam with an N-linked galloyl moiety, the latter identified as strategic in conferring anti-LE properties to some flavonols. This N-galloyl-derivative -lactam inhibits the LE activity with a K i of 0.7 M, whereas it exerts weak activity against cathepsin G and protease-3 (IC 50 Ͼ 100 M), and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9. Without affecting chemotactic response and viability of polymorphonuclear (PMN) leukocytes, the compound efficiently restrains their chemoinvasion (IC 50 of 1-2 M) blocking the LE-triggered activation of pro-MMP-9, instrumental to extravasation. Daily i.p. injection of compound enhances resolution in a pulmonary inflammation model, significantly reducing consequent fibrosis. These results indicate that the new -lactam is a potent anti-inflammatory compound with therapeutic potential.