Bikinin is primarily utilized in plant biology research to study and manipulate the brassinosteroid signaling pathway. It acts as an inhibitor of the BIN2 kinase, a key negative regulator in this pathway, allowing researchers to investigate the role of brassinosteroids in plant growth and development. By applying bikinin, scientists can induce brassinosteroid-like effects, such as promoting cell elongation and differentiation, which helps in understanding the molecular mechanisms behind plant responses to hormones. This chemical is particularly valuable in experiments aimed at enhancing crop yield, stress tolerance, and overall plant health through genetic and biochemical studies.