CYP1B1-IN-4 is primarily used as a selective inhibitor of the cytochrome P450 1B1 (CYP1B1) enzyme. This compound is valuable in research settings for studying the role of CYP1B1 in metabolic pathways, particularly in the activation of procarcinogens and the metabolism of estrogens. Due to its selectivity, it helps in probing the enzyme's involvement in cancer development, especially in hormone-dependent cancers such as breast, prostate, and ovarian cancers.

It is also employed in the investigation of CYP1B1-mediated drug resistance, where the enzyme's overexpression can lead to the breakdown of certain chemotherapeutic agents. By inhibiting CYP1B1, CYP1B1-IN-4 may help enhance the efficacy of anticancer drugs that are otherwise metabolized and inactivated by this enzyme.

Additionally, this inhibitor supports studies exploring the link between CYP1B1 and oxidative stress, as well as its potential role in inflammatory processes and angiogenesis. Its application extends to preclinical research aimed at developing targeted therapies that exploit CYP1B1 overexpression in tumor tissues while sparing normal cells.