Abstract: This invention relates to the novel retinoyloxy(aryl-substituted)-alkylene butyrate compounds of Formula (I) and pharmaceutical compositions containing same, to methods of treating, preventing or ameliorating cancer and other proliferative diseases in a subject in need of such treatment comprising administering a compound of Formula (I) and pharmaceutically-acceptable salts and prodrugs thereof. ##STR1## The compounds of the invention are also useful in methods of inhibiting histone deacetylase, ameliorating wrinkles, treating or ameliorating dermatological disorders, inducing wound healing, treating cutaneous ulcers and treating gastrointestinal disorders.