A-196 is primarily utilized in biochemical research as a potent and selective inhibitor of the protein methyltransferase enzyme SUV39H1. This enzyme plays a crucial role in the regulation of chromatin structure and gene expression through histone methylation. By inhibiting SUV39H1, A-196 helps researchers study the effects of histone methylation on cellular processes such as gene silencing, cell differentiation, and epigenetic regulation. It is particularly valuable in understanding the mechanisms underlying cancer development, as aberrant histone methylation is often linked to tumorigenesis. Additionally, A-196 is used in drug discovery efforts to identify potential therapeutic targets for diseases influenced by epigenetic modifications. Its specificity and efficacy make it a key tool in advancing the field of epigenetics and related biomedical research.