Used in research to activate the Hedgehog signaling pathway, making it valuable for studying cell differentiation, tissue development, and regenerative medicine. Commonly applied in stem cell cultures to direct neural differentiation and maintain progenitor cell populations. Also employed in cancer research, particularly in models involving medulloblastoma and basal cell carcinoma, where dysregulated Hedgehog signaling plays a key role. Its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier enhances its utility in neurological studies.