STAT3/HDAC-IN-2 (compound 18), a dual inhibitor of STAT3 and HDAC, promotes autophagy and apoptosis. This compound features an amphiphilic hydroxamic acid hybrid structure, derived from the natural product isopropanol lactone (IAL), and functions as a nanoscale anticancer agent. It has the ability to self-assemble into nanoparticles in aqueous environments, leading to enhanced tumor tissue accumulation, increased cellular uptake, and improved anticancer efficacy compared to its free state.