EMD638683 is primarily used in research settings to study its effects on metabolic processes, particularly in relation to obesity and diabetes. It functions as a selective inhibitor of S6 kinase 1 (S6K1), a key enzyme involved in regulating cell growth and metabolism. By inhibiting S6K1, this compound helps researchers explore pathways related to insulin resistance and fat storage. Its application is significant in preclinical studies aimed at understanding metabolic disorders and developing potential therapeutic strategies. Additionally, EMD638683 is utilized in experiments to investigate its impact on mTOR signaling, a critical pathway in cellular metabolism and energy balance.