Used primarily in research to study neurodegenerative diseases, 6-hydroxydopamine selectively destroys dopaminergic and noradrenergic neurons. This makes it valuable for creating animal models of Parkinson's disease, allowing scientists to investigate disease mechanisms and test potential treatments. It is also employed in studying the role of these neurons in behavior, learning, and memory. Additionally, it helps in exploring the effects of oxidative stress and neurotoxicity on the nervous system.