Used as an inhibitor of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), sodium oxamate is applied in biochemical research to study metabolic pathways, particularly glycolysis. It helps researchers investigate cancer cell metabolism since many cancer cells rely heavily on glycolysis for energy production (the Warburg effect). By blocking LDH, sodium oxamate reduces the conversion of pyruvate to lactate, disrupting energy production in certain tumor cells. It is also explored in studies related to ischemia, neuroprotection, and immune cell function due to its impact on cellular metabolism. In experimental models, it has shown potential to enhance the effects of other anticancer agents by altering metabolic activity in tumor environments.