ITSA-1 is primarily used in research settings as a small molecule modulator of autophagy, a cellular degradation and recycling process. It has been identified for its ability to enhance autophagic flux, making it a valuable tool in studying neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, where impaired autophagy contributes to the accumulation of toxic protein aggregates. ITSA-1 shows potential in promoting the clearance of misfolded proteins like alpha-synuclein and tau, suggesting possible therapeutic relevance in models of these diseases. Additionally, it is used to investigate the role of autophagy in aging, cancer, and infectious diseases, offering insights into novel treatment strategies. Its application remains confined to preclinical research, mainly in cell cultures and animal models.