Ikarugamycin is primarily studied for its potent antimicrobial and anticancer properties. It has shown significant activity against various Gram-positive bacteria, making it a potential candidate for developing new antibiotics, especially in the face of rising antibiotic resistance. Additionally, its ability to inhibit cancer cell growth by targeting specific cellular pathways has sparked interest in its use as a chemotherapeutic agent. Research is ongoing to explore its efficacy in treating different types of cancers, including leukemia and solid tumors. Furthermore, ikarugamycin has been investigated for its role in modulating autophagy, a cellular process linked to neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting potential applications in treating conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Its unique mechanism of action continues to make it a valuable compound in biomedical research.