DuP-697 is primarily recognized for its role as a selective inhibitor of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), an enzyme involved in inflammation and pain pathways. Its application is significant in pharmacological research, where it is used to study the mechanisms of inflammation and the effects of COX-2 inhibition. By selectively blocking COX-2, DuP-697 helps researchers understand the enzyme's role in inflammatory diseases, such as arthritis, and its potential as a target for developing anti-inflammatory drugs. Additionally, it serves as a tool in experimental models to differentiate between the functions of COX-1 and COX-2, aiding in the development of safer therapeutic agents with reduced gastrointestinal side effects.