The synthesis of novel isoform-selective HDAC inhibitors is considered to be an important, emerging field in medicinal chemistry. In this paper, the preparation and assessment of thirteen selective HDAC6 inhibitors is disclosed, elaborating on a previously developed thiaheterocyclic Tubathian series. All compounds were evaluated in vitro for their ability to inhibit HDAC6, and a selection of five potent compounds was further screened toward all HDAC isoforms (HDAC1-11). The capability of these Tubathian analogs to inhibit α-tubulin deacetylation was assessed as well, and ADME/Tox data were collected. This thorough SAR evaluation revealed that the oxidized, para-substituted hydroxamic acids can be recognized as valuable lead structures in the pursuit of novel potent and selective HDAC6 inhibitors.
