Used in biological research to study protein transport and secretion by disrupting the Golgi apparatus and inhibiting intracellular protein trafficking. Commonly applied in cell biology to induce endoplasmic reticulum stress and investigate autophagy. Also employed in immunology to enhance detection of intracellular cytokines by blocking secretory pathways in immune cells. Shows antiviral and anticancer activity in experimental models, making it a tool compound in drug discovery and mechanistic studies.