SMER3 is primarily used in biological research as a selective inhibitor of mTORC1 (mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1). It is particularly valuable in studying autophagy, a cellular process involved in the degradation and recycling of damaged organelles and proteins. Researchers utilize SMER3 to investigate the regulatory mechanisms of autophagy and its implications in diseases such as cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and metabolic conditions. By inhibiting mTORC1, SMER3 helps in understanding how cellular energy and nutrient sensing pathways influence autophagy and cell survival. This makes it a useful tool in exploring potential therapeutic strategies for diseases linked to autophagy dysregulation.