A series of 1-[3-(acylthio)-3-aroylpropionyl]-L-proline derivatives was synthesized. A number of these compounds are potent angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors that lowered blood pressure in aorta-coarcted renal hypertensive rats. The most active derivatives are 1-[3(R)-(acetylthio) -3-substituted-benzoyl)-2(S)-methyl-propionyl]-L-prolines with an in vivo activity equivalent to SQ 14,225 (captopril). Structure-activity relationships are discussed. Changes in the configuration of the alpha-methyl group and the S-acetyl group affect the ACE activity. Coupling of 3-(substituted-benzoyl)-2-methylpropionic acids to L-proline via enol lactones is described.