HS-173 is primarily used in research settings as a potent and selective inhibitor of PI3Kα, a key enzyme in the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. This pathway is crucial for cell growth, survival, and metabolism, and its dysregulation is often associated with cancer. By inhibiting PI3Kα, HS-173 helps researchers study the role of this pathway in cancer development and progression. It is particularly valuable in preclinical studies to evaluate the potential of targeting PI3Kα for cancer therapy. Additionally, HS-173 is used to investigate the effects of PI3K inhibition on cellular processes such as apoptosis, proliferation, and angiogenesis, providing insights into new therapeutic strategies for various cancers.