INI-43 is primarily used in research settings as a potent and selective inhibitor of integrase enzymes, particularly in the study of retroviral replication mechanisms. It serves as a key tool compound in antiviral drug development, especially for HIV, where integrase is a critical target. INI-43 helps block the integration of viral DNA into the host genome, thereby preventing viral propagation in cell cultures. Its high specificity and efficacy make it valuable for probing integrase function and for evaluating the biochemical and cellular impacts of integrase inhibition. Additionally, INI-43 is employed in structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies to guide the design of next-generation antiretroviral agents.