Used primarily as a research tool in cellular physiology, this compound acts as a potent inhibitor of sodium-hydrogen exchangers (NHE), particularly NHE-1. It is widely applied in studies related to ion transport across cell membranes, helping scientists investigate mechanisms of pH regulation, cell volume control, and cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury. Due to its selectivity and enhanced membrane permeability compared to amiloride, it is favored in experiments where intracellular NHE activity needs to be blocked. It also serves in cancer research, as altered NHE activity is linked to tumor cell proliferation and migration. Additionally, it has been used to probe the role of NHE in neuronal function and hypertension models.