Used in organic synthesis as an intermediate for steroid derivatives, 3-oxostenine plays a role in the preparation of pharmacologically active compounds. It is particularly valuable in the development of anti-inflammatory and hormonal agents. Due to its ketone functionality and structural similarity to steroidal frameworks, it serves as a building block in the modification of steroid nuclei for research in medicinal chemistry. It is also employed in studies related to metabolic pathways and enzyme inhibition, especially in assays involving steroid-converting enzymes. Its reactivity allows for selective transformations, enabling the synthesis of more complex bioactive molecules in laboratory settings.