MK-801 (Dizocilpine) Maleate is primarily used in neuroscience research as a potent and selective non-competitive antagonist of the NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptor. It is widely employed in experimental studies to investigate the role of NMDA receptors in various neurological processes, including synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory. By blocking these receptors, it helps researchers understand the mechanisms underlying excitotoxicity, which is implicated in conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. Additionally, MK-801 is used in animal models to study psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia, as it can induce behaviors resembling the positive, negative, and cognitive symptoms of the disorder. Its application extends to exploring the neurobiological basis of addiction and pain pathways, providing insights into potential therapeutic targets for these conditions.