IC87201 is primarily used in research settings to study and modulate the activity of the PSD-95 protein, which plays a critical role in neuronal signaling and synaptic plasticity. It is often employed as a selective inhibitor to investigate the interactions between PSD-95 and NMDA receptors, helping researchers understand the molecular mechanisms underlying neurological disorders such as stroke, chronic pain, and neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, IC87201 has been explored for its potential therapeutic applications in mitigating excitotoxicity, a process linked to neuronal damage in conditions like ischemia and traumatic brain injury. Its ability to disrupt specific protein-protein interactions makes it a valuable tool in both basic neuroscience research and drug development efforts targeting neurological conditions.