Cortienic acid is primarily used in pharmaceutical research and development, particularly in studies related to adrenal hormone metabolism. It acts as an intermediate in the biosynthesis of corticosteroids, making it valuable for investigating steroidogenic pathways. Due to its structural similarity to adrenal steroids, it is employed in enzymatic assays to examine the activity of enzymes such as 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. This makes it useful in research focused on metabolic disorders, inflammation, and conditions related to cortisol regulation. Its role as a metabolic analog also supports drug development efforts targeting hormonal imbalances and endocrine-related diseases.