Used in research as a selective inhibitor of histone deacetylases (HDACs), particularly HDAC6. This compound shows potential in the study of cancer cell proliferation and apoptosis due to its ability to modulate acetylation of histones and other proteins involved in cell cycle regulation. It is also employed in epigenetic studies to understand gene expression control mechanisms. Its hydroxamic acid group enables strong binding to zinc ions in the active site of deacetylase enzymes, enhancing its inhibitory effect. Commonly applied in in vitro assays and cellular models for evaluating HDAC-targeted therapies.