NSC95397 is primarily investigated for its potential as an anticancer agent due to its ability to inhibit dual-specificity phosphatases, particularly Cdc25 phosphatases. These enzymes play a critical role in regulating cell cycle progression by activating cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs). By inhibiting Cdc25, NSC95397 induces cell cycle arrest, particularly at the G2/M phase, which can lead to suppression of tumor cell proliferation. It has shown activity against various cancer cell lines in preclinical studies, making it a useful tool compound in cancer research and drug development. Additionally, NSC95397 has been used to study signaling pathways involving MAP kinase and cell cycle control, supporting its role in understanding molecular mechanisms of cell growth and apoptosis.