Used as a potent irreversible inhibitor of serine hydrolases, particularly acetylcholinesterase and other esterase enzymes. It is widely applied in biochemical research to probe enzyme mechanisms and study metabolic pathways involving esterases. Due to its high reactivity with active-site serine residues, it serves as a tool for labeling and identifying functional enzymes in complex biological samples. Also employed in the development of nerve agent countermeasures because of its structural similarity to organophosphorus compounds. Its ability to cross cell membranes makes it useful in cellular and in vivo studies. Handle with extreme care due to high toxicity and potential for causing cholinergic effects.