Used in pharmaceutical research as a key intermediate in the synthesis of histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors. These inhibitors are investigated for their potential in treating various cancers by regulating gene expression and inducing apoptosis in tumor cells. The compound's hydroxamic acid group enables strong chelation of zinc ions in the active site of HDAC enzymes, enhancing inhibitory activity. It is also explored in the development of anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective agents due to its ability to modulate cellular signaling pathways.