ACAT-IN-3 is primarily utilized in biochemical research to study the mechanisms of cholesterol metabolism. It serves as a potent inhibitor of acyl-CoA:cholesterol acyltransferase (ACAT), an enzyme involved in the esterification of cholesterol within cells. By inhibiting ACAT, this compound helps researchers explore the role of cholesterol esterification in various physiological and pathological processes, such as atherosclerosis and lipid storage diseases. Additionally, ACAT-IN-3 is used in drug discovery efforts aimed at developing therapeutic agents for managing hypercholesterolemia and related cardiovascular disorders. Its application extends to in vitro and in vivo studies to evaluate its efficacy and potential side effects in modulating cholesterol homeostasis.