Used in biochemical research as a specialized hydroxamic acid derivative, this compound serves as a potent inhibitor of metalloenzymes, particularly histone deacetylases (HDACs). Its structure enables strong chelation of zinc ions at the active site of these enzymes, making it valuable in studying epigenetic regulation and gene expression. It is also employed in cancer research due to its ability to induce cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in tumor cells. Additionally, it acts as a building block in the synthesis of more complex enzyme inhibitors and is utilized in structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies to develop improved pharmacological agents.