NIH-12848 is a potent and selective small-molecule inhibitor targeting the Sec61 translocon, a key protein complex involved in the entry of newly synthesized proteins into the endoplasmic reticulum. Its primary application lies in research settings, where it is used to study protein translocation, secretion, and endoplasmic reticulum stress pathways. By blocking Sec61, NIH-12848 effectively suppresses the production of secreted and membrane-bound proteins, making it a valuable tool for investigating diseases associated with protein misfolding and overexpression, such as certain cancers and inflammatory conditions. It has shown activity against cancer cell lines that depend on the secretion of growth factors or immune modulators, suggesting potential utility in oncology research. Additionally, NIH-12848 is used to probe the role of protein secretion in viral replication, as many viruses rely on the host secretory pathway for envelope protein expression and virion assembly. Due to its mechanism, it serves as a prototype for developing novel therapeutics aimed at disrupting pathological protein secretion with high selectivity.