Histone deacetylase inhibitors derived from 1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrrolo[1,2-a]pyrazine and related heterocycles selective for the HDAC6 isoform.

Acyl derivatives of 4-(aminomethyl)-N-hydroxybenzamide are potent sub-type selective HDAC6 inhibitors. Constrained heterocyclic analogs based on 1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrrolo[1,2-a]pyrazine show further enhanced HDAC6 selectivity and inhibitory activity in cells. Homology models suggest that the heterocyclic spacer can more effectively access the wider catalytic channel of HDAC6 compared to other HDAC sub-types.