Used in research for its potent inhibitory effects on histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6), ACY-738 supports studies on neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, and immune disorders. It enhances the acetylation of α-tubulin, making it valuable in cellular assays focused on cytoskeletal dynamics and protein aggregation. Due to its blood-brain barrier permeability, it is particularly useful in neuroscience research for exploring cognitive function and neuroprotection in animal models. Its selectivity for HDAC6 over other HDAC isoforms makes it a preferred tool compound in epigenetic studies aiming to minimize off-target effects.