PD 184352 is primarily used in research settings as a selective inhibitor of MEK1 and MEK2, which are key components of the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway. This pathway is often dysregulated in various cancers, making PD 184352 a valuable tool for studying the role of MEK in cancer cell proliferation and survival. By inhibiting MEK, it helps researchers understand the effects of blocking this pathway on tumor growth and metastasis. Additionally, it is utilized in preclinical studies to explore potential therapeutic strategies for cancers driven by mutations in the RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK pathway. Its application extends to investigating cellular responses to MEK inhibition, aiding in the development of targeted cancer therapies.