4-Hydroxy alternariol is a mycotoxin metabolite produced by Alternaria fungi, primarily studied in mycotoxin research for its toxicological effects on human health, particularly in food safety and contamination contexts. Researchers analyze its presence in agricultural products to assess risks and develop mitigation strategies. It serves as a reference standard in analytical techniques like chromatography and mass spectrometry for detecting and quantifying Alternaria toxins in samples. Additionally, it is investigated for its potential cytotoxic properties, including inhibition of cancer cell growth, making it of interest in medical and pharmacological research for possible anti-cancer applications. Its study advances understanding of fungal metabolites' impacts on food quality, safety, and therapeutic potentials.