Used in research for its potent inhibition of histone deacetylases (HDACs), particularly HDAC1, HDAC2, and HDAC3. This activity leads to increased histone acetylation, resulting in altered gene expression that can induce cell cycle arrest, differentiation, and apoptosis in cancer cells. It has shown antitumor effects in preclinical models of leukemia, breast cancer, and other solid tumors. Due to its ability to modulate chromatin structure and affect oncogenic pathways, it is investigated as a potential therapeutic agent in epigenetic cancer therapy. Also used as a tool compound in studies exploring HDAC inhibition mechanisms and combination therapies with other anticancer agents.