Used as a potent inhibitor of histone deacetylases (HDACs), particularly in biochemical and pharmacological research. It serves as a key tool compound in studies related to gene expression, cancer cell proliferation, and epigenetic regulation. Its hydroxamic acid functional group enables strong chelation of zinc ions in the active site of HDAC enzymes, making it effective at low concentrations. Commonly employed in in vitro assays to modulate acetylation states of histones and non-histone proteins, aiding in the investigation of cellular processes such as apoptosis, differentiation, and cell cycle control. Also utilized in the development and validation of HDAC-targeted therapeutics.