Used in research as a potent and selective inhibitor of the enzyme cyclin-dependent kinase 8 (CDK8), BMS-816336 helps scientists study signaling pathways involved in gene transcription and cancer progression. It shows promise in preclinical studies for targeting certain types of leukemia and solid tumors by disrupting oncogenic transcription. Its application is primarily confined to laboratory and drug development settings, where it aids in validating CDK8 as a therapeutic target. Due to its experimental status, it is not used clinically but serves as a tool compound in oncology and molecular biology research.