6-Aminophenanthridine (6AP) is primarily utilized in biochemical research as a fluorescent probe for studying nucleic acids. It binds selectively to DNA and RNA, enabling the visualization and analysis of nucleic acid structures and interactions. This property makes it valuable in molecular biology for applications such as detecting DNA damage, studying DNA-protein interactions, and monitoring nucleic acid dynamics in live cells. Additionally, 6AP has been explored for its potential in developing therapeutic agents due to its ability to intercalate into DNA, which can influence cellular processes like transcription and replication. Its fluorescence properties also make it useful in diagnostic assays and imaging techniques.