W-15 is primarily used in research settings as a selective inhibitor of the enzyme soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH). This enzyme plays a significant role in the metabolism of epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs), which are involved in various physiological processes such as inflammation, vascular tone, and pain regulation. By inhibiting sEH, W-15 helps to increase the levels of EETs, potentially offering therapeutic benefits in conditions like hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and chronic pain. Researchers utilize W-15 to study the pathways and mechanisms influenced by sEH inhibition, contributing to the development of novel treatments for these and related disorders.