TH588 hydrochloride is primarily utilized in research settings to study its effects on cellular processes, particularly in the context of cancer biology. It is known to inhibit MTH1, an enzyme that plays a role in preventing the incorporation of oxidized nucleotides into DNA, making it a potential candidate for targeting cancer cells that rely on this mechanism for survival. Researchers use this compound to explore its efficacy in inducing selective cell death in tumor cells while sparing normal cells. Additionally, it serves as a tool to investigate the role of nucleotide pool sanitization in DNA repair and cellular stress responses. Its application extends to preclinical studies aimed at understanding its potential as a therapeutic agent in oncology.