MRT-68921 hydrochloride is primarily used in research settings to study autophagy, a cellular process involved in the degradation and recycling of damaged or unnecessary cellular components. It acts as a potent and selective inhibitor of ULK1, a key kinase that initiates autophagy. By inhibiting ULK1, researchers can investigate the role of autophagy in various biological processes, including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and immune responses. This compound is particularly valuable in understanding how autophagy contributes to cell survival under stress conditions and its potential as a therapeutic target. Additionally, MRT-68921 hydrochloride is used to explore the interplay between autophagy and other cellular pathways, aiding in the development of novel treatments for diseases where autophagy dysregulation plays a critical role.