WY-14643 is primarily used in scientific research as a potent and selective agonist for the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα). It is widely employed to study lipid metabolism, inflammation, and glucose homeostasis. Researchers use WY-14643 to induce fatty acid oxidation and to investigate the regulation of genes involved in lipid transport and metabolism. It is also utilized in animal models to explore the mechanisms of insulin sensitivity and hepatic steatosis, making it a valuable tool in metabolic disease research, including type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Additionally, WY-14643 helps in understanding the role of PPARα in cardiovascular health and inflammatory responses.