Used primarily in research to study insulin resistance and glucose metabolism, this compound acts as a potent agonist for peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ). It enhances insulin sensitivity in adipose tissue, muscle, and liver cells, making it valuable in diabetes-related studies. It has been used to investigate the mechanisms of adipocyte differentiation and lipid storage. Though not used clinically due to toxicity concerns, it serves as a reference compound in developing newer thiazolidinedione drugs. Also employed in studies exploring anti-inflammatory effects and potential anticancer activity linked to PPARγ activation.