Nor-NOHA acetate is primarily utilized in biochemical research as a potent and selective inhibitor of arginase, an enzyme involved in the urea cycle. By inhibiting arginase, it helps in studying the role of arginine metabolism in various physiological and pathological processes, such as immune response, cardiovascular function, and cancer progression. This compound is particularly valuable in experimental settings to explore the therapeutic potential of arginase inhibition in diseases like hypertension, atherosclerosis, and certain types of tumors. Additionally, it aids in understanding the interplay between nitric oxide (NO) pathways and arginase activity, which is crucial for developing targeted treatments for conditions involving dysregulated NO signaling.