Used in research to induce Parkinson-like symptoms in animal models, particularly in mice and primates. It helps scientists study the progression of Parkinson’s disease and test potential treatments. The compound crosses the blood-brain barrier and is metabolized into a toxic byproduct that selectively damages dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra, mimicking the neural degeneration seen in Parkinson’s. Widely applied in neuroscience for evaluating neuroprotective drugs, deep brain stimulation, and cell replacement therapies.