Oxythiamine is primarily used in biochemical research as a thiamine antagonist. It is employed to study the effects of thiamine deficiency in various biological systems, as it inhibits the activity of thiamine-dependent enzymes. This compound is particularly useful in understanding the role of thiamine in cellular metabolism, especially in the context of energy production and nervous system function. Researchers also utilize oxythiamine to investigate its potential therapeutic applications in diseases where thiamine metabolism is disrupted, such as certain types of cancers and metabolic disorders. Additionally, it serves as a tool in experimental models to explore the biochemical pathways involved in thiamine utilization and its impact on overall health.