Acivicin is primarily used in biochemical research as a potent inhibitor of glutamine-dependent enzymes. It plays a significant role in studying the metabolism of glutamine, particularly in cancer cells, where glutamine metabolism is often dysregulated. By inhibiting enzymes such as glutaminase, acivicin helps researchers understand the role of glutamine in cell proliferation and survival. This compound is also utilized in experimental studies to explore potential therapeutic strategies for targeting glutamine metabolism in various cancers. Additionally, acivicin has been investigated for its potential to enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy by disrupting the nutrient supply to tumor cells. Its application extends to neuroscience research, where it is used to study the role of glutamine in neurotransmitter synthesis and brain function. Overall, acivicin serves as a valuable tool in both cancer research and neurochemical studies.