OTS514 hydrochloride is primarily used in research settings to study its effects on cancer cells. It functions as a potent and selective inhibitor of MTH1 (NUDT1, mutT homolog 1), an enzyme that hydrolyzes oxidized deoxyribonucleotides (8-oxo-dGTP) to prevent their misincorporation into DNA during replication. By inhibiting MTH1, OTS514 causes accumulation of oxidized dNTPs, leading to DNA damage and selective killing of cancer cells that rely on high MTH1 activity. Researchers utilize this compound to explore mechanisms of replication stress, DNA damage response, and tumor growth inhibition. Its ability to target this specific pathway offers insights into developing precise anticancer therapies, particularly for cancers with elevated oxidative stress. Additionally, OTS514 hydrochloride is employed in preclinical studies to assess its efficacy, safety, and pharmacokinetics, aiding in the development of novel anticancer drugs.