SBI-0206965 is primarily used as a selective autophagy inhibitor, specifically targeting the ULK1 kinase, a key initiator of the autophagy pathway. It is widely applied in research settings to study cellular autophagy mechanisms and its role in various diseases, particularly cancer. By inhibiting ULK1, SBI-0206965 helps researchers understand how blocking autophagy affects tumor cell survival, especially under stress conditions like nutrient deprivation or chemotherapy. It has also been used in combination studies with other anticancer agents to assess synergistic effects, where suppression of autophagy can enhance the efficacy of certain therapies. Additionally, it serves as a tool compound in exploring the involvement of autophagy in neurodegenerative diseases and infections, providing insights into potential therapeutic strategies.