Methods of using propionoyloxymethyl propionate ("POMP") and butyroyloxymethyl butyrate ("BOMB") are disclosed. Methods of treating cancer using these compounds are disclosed. The compounds are effective in the inhibition of histone deacetylase.
Histone deacetylase inhibitors and uses thereof are provided that have the general formula: ##STR00001## wherein R.sub.1, R.sub.2, R.sub.3, R.sub.4, R.sub.5, R.sub.6, R.sub.7, R.sub.8, M and L have the definitions as described herein.
