Used as a potent inhibitor of heme oxygenase, an enzyme involved in heme degradation. This inhibition leads to increased intracellular heme levels, which can suppress the activity of 5-aminolevulinic acid synthase, the rate-limiting enzyme in heme biosynthesis. Due to this regulatory effect, it is studied in the context of controlling heme metabolism in diseases such as porphyrias.

Investigated for its potential therapeutic role in reducing bilirubin production, making it relevant in conditions like neonatal jaundice and Crigler-Najjar syndrome. Its ability to modulate heme oxygenase activity also gives it anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective properties, explored in models of ischemia-reperfusion injury, organ transplantation, and vascular dysfunction.

Additionally, Mn(II)protoporphyrin IX has been used in research to mimic the effects of hypoxia and to study cellular responses involving heme-dependent pathways. Its metal center allows for redox activity useful in certain biochemical assays and enzyme studies.