Doramapimod is primarily used in research settings for its ability to inhibit p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK), a key enzyme involved in inflammatory responses. This inhibition makes it a valuable tool for studying inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other conditions driven by cytokine production. It has also been investigated for its potential in cancer research, as p38 signaling can influence tumor growth and cell survival. Due to its role in modulating cellular stress responses, doramapimod is used to explore pathways related to apoptosis, cell differentiation, and immune regulation. While not approved for clinical use, it remains an important compound in preclinical studies aiming to develop new anti-inflammatory and anticancer therapies.