RKI-1447 is primarily used in biomedical research as a potent and selective inhibitor of Rho-associated coiled-coil containing protein kinase 2 (ROCK2). It is widely applied in studies related to cancer cell migration, invasion, and metastasis due to its ability to disrupt the Rho/ROCK signaling pathway, which plays a key role in cytoskeletal organization and cell motility. Researchers use RKI-1447 to investigate tumor progression in various cancer types, including breast, liver, and melanoma, where inhibition of ROCK2 activity leads to reduced cell contraction, altered adhesion, and suppression of invasive behavior.

In addition to oncology, RKI-1447 has been explored in studies involving cellular morphology and mechanotransduction. It helps modulate actin stress fiber formation and focal adhesion assembly, making it a valuable tool for understanding cell mechanics and signaling dynamics. Its application extends to ophthalmic research, particularly in models of glaucoma, where ROCK inhibitors are known to lower intraocular pressure by improving aqueous humor outflow. RKI-1447 also shows relevance in vascular research, including inflammation and hypertension models. Despite its current role as a research compound, RKI-1447 holds potential for development into therapeutic agents targeting metastatic cancers and other diseases involving aberrant ROCK activity.