Oleoyl coenzyme A lithium salt is primarily used in biochemical research to study lipid metabolism and enzyme activity. It serves as a substrate for enzymes like acyl-CoA synthetases and acyltransferases, helping researchers understand fatty acid activation and transfer processes. This compound is also utilized in investigating the mechanisms of beta-oxidation, a critical pathway for energy production in cells. Additionally, it plays a role in studying lipid biosynthesis and the regulation of metabolic pathways in various organisms. Its application extends to exploring the function of lipid-related enzymes in diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and metabolic disorders.