BMH-21 is primarily investigated for its potential in cancer research due to its ability to inhibit RNA polymerase I, a crucial enzyme involved in ribosomal RNA synthesis. By disrupting this process, it can selectively target cancer cells, which rely heavily on rapid ribosome production for their uncontrolled growth. This makes BMH-21 a promising candidate for studying novel cancer therapies, particularly in cancers with high ribosomal activity. Additionally, it is used in molecular biology research to explore mechanisms of transcription and cellular stress responses, providing insights into how cells manage protein synthesis under various conditions. Its application extends to drug development, where it serves as a tool for identifying new targets and pathways for therapeutic intervention.