Ailanthone is primarily studied for its potent anti-cancer properties. It has shown strong inhibitory effects on various cancer cell lines by inducing cell cycle arrest and promoting apoptosis. Research highlights its activity against liver, breast, lung, and colon cancers, where it suppresses tumor growth and metastasis through modulation of key signaling pathways such as PI3K/AKT and MAPK.

In addition to its anti-tumor potential, Ailanthone exhibits anti-inflammatory and anti-viral activities, making it a candidate for development in treating chronic inflammatory diseases and certain viral infections. It also demonstrates herbicidal properties, suggesting possible use in agriculture as a natural weed control agent.

Due to its ability to interfere with protein-protein interactions involved in cancer progression, Ailanthone is being explored as a lead compound for designing targeted cancer therapies. However, its clinical application is still under preclinical investigation, focusing on improving solubility and reducing toxicity.