Used primarily in research as a selective inhibitor of sphingosine kinase 2 (SK2), this compound has shown potential in preclinical studies for cancer therapy. It induces apoptosis in various tumor cell lines by disrupting sphingolipid metabolism, leading to accumulation of pro-apoptotic ceramide. Demonstrates activity against cancers such as pancreatic, prostate, and liver carcinomas in laboratory models. Also investigated for antiviral properties, particularly against certain RNA viruses, due to its ability to modulate cellular signaling pathways involved in viral replication. Not approved for clinical use and remains under experimental investigation.