Used in research settings as a selective inhibitor of the enzyme GSK-3β (glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta), MI-136 helps modulate cellular signaling pathways involved in inflammation, neurodegeneration, and cancer. It is particularly valuable in studies exploring the role of GSK-3β in tau phosphorylation, a process linked to Alzheimer's disease pathology. Researchers also apply MI-136 to investigate Wnt signaling pathway regulation, which plays a critical role in cell proliferation and development. Due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier in preclinical models, it is considered a useful tool compound in neuroscience and oncology research.