Cruzain-IN-1 is primarily used in research focused on developing treatments for Chagas disease, a tropical parasitic infection caused by Trypanosoma cruzi. It acts as an inhibitor of cruzain, a key cysteine protease enzyme essential for the survival and replication of the parasite. By blocking cruzain, this compound disrupts the parasite's life cycle, making it a potential candidate for therapeutic development. Its application is largely confined to laboratory studies aimed at understanding its efficacy, mechanism of action, and potential for drug optimization. Researchers are exploring its use in combination therapies or as a standalone treatment to combat the disease.