ACY-957 is a selective inhibitor of histone deacetylase (HDAC) enzymes, primarily utilized in medical research for studying cancer and other diseases involving cellular regulation. It plays a significant role in developing therapies that target specific cellular pathways in disease progression. Researchers use ACY-957 to explore its potential in inhibiting HDAC enzymes, which are critical for the growth and survival of cancer cells by influencing gene expression through epigenetic mechanisms. This compound is valuable in the search for effective, targeted cancer treatments. Additionally, ACY-957 is investigated for its applications in neurological disorders and inflammatory conditions, though its use remains in experimental and preclinical stages to evaluate efficacy and safety.