Abstract
Histone deacetylase (HDAC) is increasingly drawing attention as a molecular target for cancer therapy. Histone acetylation plays an important role in controlling transcription by modulating chromatin structure and function. HDAC has been linked to tumorigenesis and tumor angiogenesis, and its inhibitors are currently studied clinically. This review focuses on the physiological roles of HDAC and the molecular mechanism of action of HDAC inhibitors. The coming generation of HDAC inhibitors will also be discussed.