STF-31 is primarily utilized in research settings to study cellular metabolism, particularly in the context of cancer biology. It acts as a selective inhibitor of glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1), which is often overexpressed in cancer cells to meet their high energy demands. By blocking GLUT1, STF-31 effectively starves cancer cells of glucose, leading to reduced proliferation and survival. This makes it a valuable tool for investigating the role of glucose metabolism in tumor growth and for exploring potential therapeutic strategies targeting metabolic pathways in cancer. Additionally, STF-31 is used in studies focused on understanding the mechanisms of metabolic adaptation in various disease states, providing insights into how cells cope with nutrient deprivation. Its application extends to preclinical research aimed at developing novel treatments for cancers that are highly dependent on glucose for their energy needs.