The present invention pertains generally to the field of therapeutic compounds, and more specifically to certain pyruvamide compounds of the following formula (for convenience, collectively referred to herein as “PVA compounds”), which, inter alia, inhibit a dust mite Group 1 peptidase allergen (e.g., Der p 1, Der f 1, Eur m 1). The present invention also pertains to pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds, and the use of such compounds and compositions, both in vitro and in vivo, to inhibit a dust mite Group 1 peptidase allergen, and in the treatment of diseases and disorders that are mediated by a dust mite Group 1 peptidase allergen; that are ameliorated by the inhibition of a dust mite Group 1 peptidase allergen; asthma; rhinitis; allergic conjunctivitis; atopic dermatitis; an allergic condition which is triggered by dust mites; an allergic condition which is triggered by a dust mite Group 1 peptidase allergen; and canine atopy.