SK1-I is primarily utilized in research settings to study its effects on sphingosine kinase 1 (SK1), an enzyme involved in cellular signaling pathways. It is employed to inhibit SK1 activity, helping researchers understand its role in cancer progression, inflammation, and other diseases. By blocking SK1, SK1-I can be used to investigate potential therapeutic strategies for conditions where this enzyme is overactive, such as certain cancers or inflammatory disorders. Its application is crucial in preclinical studies to evaluate its efficacy and safety as a potential drug candidate.