PQ 401 is primarily used as a selective inhibitor of the enzyme soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH). This inhibition helps increase the levels of endogenous epoxy fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and vasodilatory effects. It is widely applied in research settings to study pain pathways, particularly neuropathic and inflammatory pain, due to its ability to reduce pain responses in preclinical models.

It has shown potential in cardiovascular research, where it contributes to lowering blood pressure and reducing end-organ damage in hypertension models. Additionally, PQ 401 is investigated for its protective effects in conditions involving inflammation and oxidative stress, such as diabetes-related complications, kidney disease, and central nervous system disorders like depression and neurodegeneration.

Due to its blood-brain barrier permeability, it is especially valuable in neuroscience research for evaluating the role of sEH in brain function and disease. Its use remains largely experimental, serving as a tool compound for target validation and mechanistic studies in pharmacology and physiology.