Micro-3 is primarily utilized in research settings to study the mechanisms of apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in cancer cells. It functions as a potent inhibitor of Mcl-1, a protein that plays a critical role in preventing apoptosis in various cancers. By inhibiting Mcl-1, Micro-3 helps researchers understand how to trigger cell death in cancer cells, making it a valuable tool in the development of targeted cancer therapies. Its application is particularly significant in studies focused on overcoming drug resistance in cancer treatments, as Mcl-1 is often overexpressed in resistant tumors. Additionally, Micro-3 is used in biochemical assays to explore protein-protein interactions and the regulation of apoptotic pathways, contributing to advancements in molecular biology and oncology research.