OSMI-1 is primarily utilized in biochemical research as a potent and selective inhibitor of O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT), an enzyme involved in the post-translational modification of proteins. By inhibiting OGT, OSMI-1 helps researchers study the role of O-GlcNAcylation in various cellular processes, including signal transduction, transcription regulation, and metabolic pathways. This compound is particularly valuable in understanding the implications of O-GlcNAcylation in diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders. Its application extends to exploring potential therapeutic strategies by modulating OGT activity in pathological conditions.