This chemical is primarily utilized in photoaffinity labeling studies, a technique employed in biochemistry and molecular biology to investigate protein-ligand interactions. The compound’s diazirine group, when exposed to ultraviolet light, generates a highly reactive carbene intermediate that can form covalent bonds with nearby molecules, effectively "tagging" the target protein. This allows researchers to identify and study binding sites and interactions with high precision. Its trifluoromethyl group enhances stability and reactivity, making it a valuable tool for probing complex biological systems and drug discovery processes. Additionally, the benzonitrile moiety provides favorable solubility properties, facilitating its use in various experimental setups.