NMS-873 is primarily utilized in research settings as a potent and selective inhibitor of p97, an ATPase involved in various cellular processes. Its application is significant in the study of protein homeostasis, particularly in understanding the mechanisms of protein degradation and the role of p97 in endoplasmic reticulum-associated degradation (ERAD). Researchers employ NMS-873 to investigate its potential in targeting cancer cells, as p97 is often overexpressed in tumors and plays a critical role in their survival. Additionally, it is used to explore therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases, where protein aggregation and misfolding are key pathological features. The compound’s ability to disrupt p97 function makes it a valuable tool in probing cellular pathways and developing novel treatments for diseases linked to protein dysregulation.