Salirasib is primarily investigated for its potential in cancer therapy, particularly in targeting Ras-driven cancers. It works by disrupting the localization of Ras proteins to the cell membrane, which is crucial for their oncogenic activity. This mechanism makes it a promising candidate for treating cancers with Ras mutations, such as pancreatic, lung, and colorectal cancers. Additionally, research explores its use in neurodegenerative diseases, where Ras signaling pathways are implicated in disease progression. Its ability to modulate these pathways offers a novel approach to addressing conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Clinical trials are ongoing to evaluate its efficacy and safety in these applications.