Used in research to selectively inhibit the TBK1 and IKKε kinases, which play key roles in inflammatory signaling and innate immune responses. This inhibitor helps study pathways related to NF-κB and IRF3 activation, particularly in contexts involving viral infection, autoimmunity, and cancer. It is valuable in probing the role of these kinases in tumor progression and resistance to therapy, especially in models where inflammation drives disease. Also employed in developing potential therapeutics targeting chronic inflammatory diseases and certain cancers reliant on TBK1/IKKε activity.