Used primarily in research settings as a metabolite of tobacco-specific nitrosamines, this compound serves as a biomarker for tobacco exposure and carcinogen metabolism in biological samples. It is instrumental in studies related to tobacco-related cancer risk, helping scientists assess metabolic activation pathways and DNA adduct formation. Due to its structural similarity to known carcinogens, it is also used in toxicological evaluations to understand mechanisms of cellular damage and mutagenicity. Its presence in urine and tissues aids in epidemiological studies linking tobacco use to increased cancer risk.