Tenovin-1 is primarily utilized in research settings for its role as a small molecule inhibitor of sirtuin activity, particularly SIRT1 and SIRT2. It is widely studied for its potential in cancer research, as it can induce p53-mediated apoptosis in cancer cells, making it a valuable tool for understanding tumor suppression mechanisms. Additionally, Tenovin-1 has been explored for its ability to inhibit autophagy, providing insights into cellular processes related to cell survival and death. Its applications extend to neurodegenerative disease research, where modulation of sirtuin activity is investigated for therapeutic potential. Overall, Tenovin-1 serves as a critical compound in biochemical and pharmacological studies aimed at targeting sirtuin pathways.