Prunasin is primarily used in research settings to study its role as a cyanogenic glycoside, which can release hydrogen cyanide upon enzymatic hydrolysis. This property makes it valuable in plant defense mechanism studies, as it helps understand how certain plants deter herbivores and pests. Additionally, prunasin is explored for its potential in pharmacological research, particularly in investigating its effects on cancer cells, as some studies suggest it may induce apoptosis in specific cancer types. Its role in plant biochemistry also contributes to studies on secondary metabolites and their ecological significance.