NG-52 is primarily utilized in biological research as a potent inhibitor of the enzyme sphingosine kinase. This enzyme plays a critical role in the sphingolipid metabolic pathway, which is involved in various cellular processes including cell growth, survival, and migration. By inhibiting sphingosine kinase, NG-52 is used to study the effects of sphingolipid signaling in cancer cells, as aberrant activity of this pathway is often linked to tumor progression and resistance to chemotherapy. Researchers employ NG-52 to explore potential therapeutic strategies targeting this pathway in oncology. Additionally, it is used in experimental models to understand the role of sphingosine kinase in inflammatory and immune responses, providing insights into diseases such as asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and other inflammatory conditions.