VH-298 is primarily used in biochemical research to study the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) pathway, which plays a critical role in cellular responses to low oxygen levels. It functions as a potent and selective inhibitor of the von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) E3 ubiquitin ligase, a key regulator of HIF stability. By inhibiting VHL, VH-298 stabilizes HIF proteins, allowing researchers to investigate their role in processes such as angiogenesis, metabolism, and tumor growth. This makes it a valuable tool for understanding diseases like cancer, where HIF signaling is often dysregulated. Additionally, VH-298 is used in drug discovery efforts aimed at developing therapies targeting the HIF pathway. Its ability to modulate hypoxia-related pathways also extends its application to studies in ischemic conditions and other oxygen-sensitive biological processes.