This chemical is primarily used in biochemical research to study cell death pathways, particularly apoptosis. It acts as an inhibitor of caspases, which are enzymes involved in the process of programmed cell death. By blocking caspase activity, researchers can investigate the role of these enzymes in various cellular processes and disease conditions, such as cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and immune system dysregulation. It is also utilized in experimental settings to determine the effectiveness of therapeutic agents targeting apoptosis. Its application helps in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying cell survival and death, contributing to the development of novel treatments for diseases linked to abnormal cell death.