SET 2 is widely used in epigenetic research due to its role as a histone methyltransferase inhibitor. It selectively targets the SET domain-containing proteins, which are involved in the methylation of lysine residues on histone tails, particularly H3K9 and H3K27. By inhibiting these enzymes, SET 2 helps modulate gene expression patterns, making it a valuable tool in studying chromatin dynamics and gene silencing mechanisms.

In cancer research, SET 2 shows potential in reactivating tumor suppressor genes that have been silenced through aberrant histone methylation. It has been applied in cellular models of leukemia, breast cancer, and other malignancies to assess the effects of epigenetic modulation on cell proliferation and apoptosis. Additionally, SET 2 is used in stem cell studies to influence differentiation pathways by altering the epigenetic landscape.

Its application extends to neurodegenerative disease research, where epigenetic dysregulation plays a role. SET 2 helps investigate how histone methylation impacts neuronal gene expression and synaptic plasticity. Due to its cell permeability and relative stability, it is suitable for in vitro and ex vivo experimental systems, supporting high-throughput screening for novel epigenetic therapies.