TUG-891 is primarily used in scientific research to study metabolic and inflammatory processes. It acts as a selective agonist for the G protein-coupled receptor GPR120, which plays a key role in regulating insulin sensitivity, glucose metabolism, and inflammation. Researchers use TUG-891 to activate GPR120 in cell cultures and animal models to investigate its effects on fat cells, immune responses, and insulin signaling. It has been instrumental in exploring potential therapeutic pathways for type 2 diabetes, obesity, and chronic inflammatory diseases. Due to its specificity, TUG-891 helps in understanding how targeting GPR120 can influence metabolic health without activating other related receptors. Its application remains confined to preclinical research and is not used in clinical or industrial settings.