PF-543 is primarily utilized in biochemical research as a potent and selective inhibitor of sphingosine kinase 1 (SphK1). This enzyme plays a critical role in the sphingolipid metabolic pathway, which is involved in various cellular processes, including cell growth, survival, and inflammation. By inhibiting SphK1, PF-543 helps researchers study the downstream effects of sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) signaling, a key lipid mediator in numerous physiological and pathological conditions. Its application is particularly valuable in cancer research, as SphK1 is often upregulated in tumors and contributes to cancer progression. Additionally, PF-543 is used to explore its potential therapeutic effects in inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and asthma, where S1P signaling is implicated. The compound serves as a crucial tool for understanding the molecular mechanisms of sphingolipid metabolism and its impact on disease pathways.