Tenovin-1 is primarily used in biomedical research for its ability to activate the p53 pathway, a critical tumor suppressor mechanism in cells. It functions by inhibiting deacetylases, particularly SIRT1 and SIRT2, leading to increased acetylation and stabilization of p53. This promotes cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in cancer cells, making it a valuable tool for studying cancer therapeutics. It has shown potential in preclinical studies for targeting various cancer types, especially those with wild-type p53. Researchers use Tenovin-1 to investigate the role of sirtuins in cellular processes such as aging, metabolism, and stress response. Due to its ability to induce apoptosis in malignant cells while sparing normal cells in certain contexts, it serves as a lead compound for developing anti-cancer agents. Additionally, Tenovin-1 is employed in studies exploring autophagy modulation and its interplay with p53 signaling. Its application remains largely confined to laboratory research, where it aids in validating sirtuins as therapeutic targets and understanding tumor suppression mechanisms.