Manumycin A is primarily used in research settings to study its effects on cellular processes. It is known to inhibit the activity of farnesyltransferase, an enzyme involved in the post-translational modification of proteins. This inhibition makes it a valuable tool in cancer research, particularly in studying the Ras signaling pathway, which is often dysregulated in various cancers. By blocking this pathway, Manumycin A helps researchers understand the mechanisms of tumor growth and explore potential therapeutic strategies.

Additionally, Manumycin A has been investigated for its antimicrobial properties. Studies have shown that it can inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and fungi, making it a potential candidate for developing new antibiotics. Its ability to disrupt microbial cell signaling pathways offers insights into novel approaches for combating resistant infections.

In the field of biochemistry, Manumycin A is used to explore protein prenylation, a critical process for the localization and function of many proteins. This research aids in understanding cellular signaling, membrane dynamics, and protein interactions, contributing to broader knowledge in molecular biology and drug development.