Disclosed are compounds of formula I (Chemical formula should be inserted here as it appears on abstract in paper form) Formula I or a stereoisomer, tautomer, or pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof, wherein R.sup.1, R.sup.2, R.sup.3, R.sup.4, R.sup.14, V, W, X, Y, Z, p, and ring A are as described in the specification. Also disclosed is the method of inhibiting aspartyl protease, and in particular, the methods of treating cardiovascular diseases, cognitive and neurodegenerative diseases. Also disclosed are methods of treating cognitive or neurodegenerative diseases using the compounds of formula I in combination with a cholinesterase inhibitor or a muscarinic m.sub.1 agonist or m.sub.2 antagonist. ##STR00001##