Used primarily in biochemical research, it acts as a protein kinase C (PKC) activator, making it valuable for studying PKC-mediated signaling pathways. Its ability to induce cellular differentiation and apoptosis is leveraged in cancer research to understand tumor progression and potential therapeutic targets. Additionally, it is employed in neuroscience studies to explore PKC's role in neuronal function and plasticity. The compound's specificity and potency make it a critical tool for investigating cellular mechanisms and drug development.