STF-62247 is primarily used in cancer research, particularly in studies related to autophagy and apoptosis in tumor cells. It has shown selective cytotoxic effects in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) by inducing autophagy through disruption of the Golgi apparatus and altering intracellular trafficking. This compound helps researchers investigate the mechanisms of cell death and survival pathways, making it a valuable tool in developing targeted cancer therapies. Its ability to enhance the sensitivity of certain cancer cells to other treatments also supports its use in combination therapy studies.