Used primarily in biochemical research to study the role of cathepsin B, a lysosomal cysteine protease, in various cellular processes. It is a selective and irreversible inhibitor of cathepsin B, making it valuable in investigating the enzyme's involvement in diseases such as cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and inflammatory conditions. In cancer research, it helps explore the enzyme's contribution to tumor invasion and metastasis. Additionally, it is utilized in studying apoptosis and autophagy pathways, providing insights into cell death mechanisms. Its application extends to experimental models of arthritis and other inflammatory diseases to assess the therapeutic potential of cathepsin B inhibition.