This Perspective provides an overview of the state-of-the-art
regarding the use of selective HDAC6 inhibitors for the
treatment of a myriad of diseases ranging from cancer to
autoimmunity to neurodegeneration. We examined the
biochemical pathways relating HDAC6 modulation to disease
etiology and treatment to summarize some of the major nonhistone
substrates and proteins that associate with HDAC6.
Furthermore, we presented evidence to support the pharmacological
targeting of HDAC6 to treat these diseases. Lastly, we
reviewed the literature for published compounds reported to be
HDAC6 selective and provided their activities at all isoforms
tested. Future success regarding the development of selective
HDAC6 inhibitors as clinical candidates will rely on a better
understanding of how HDAC6 functions in the cell and the
continuing efforts to tailor the activity, selectivity, and
pharmacokinetics of these compounds