HDAC-IN-52 is primarily used in biomedical research as a potent and selective inhibitor of histone deacetylases (HDACs), particularly targeting Class I HDAC enzymes. Its main application lies in cancer research, where it modulates gene expression by promoting histone acetylation, leading to the reactivation of tumor suppressor genes. This compound has demonstrated anti-proliferative effects in various cancer cell lines, inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis.

It is also employed as a tool compound to study epigenetic regulation and chromatin remodeling in cellular models. Due to its selectivity and potency, HDAC-IN-52 helps researchers dissect the roles of specific HDAC isoforms in disease pathways, making it valuable in the development of targeted therapies for hematological and solid tumors. Additionally, it shows potential in studying inflammatory diseases and neurodegenerative disorders where HDAC activity is dysregulated.