Used as an experimental antineoplastic agent, particularly in cancer research due to its ability to inhibit topoisomerase I, an enzyme critical for DNA replication in tumor cells. It has shown activity against various solid tumors, including colon, lung, and ovarian cancers in preclinical studies. Its application is primarily in investigational therapies, where it functions by stabilizing the topoisomerase I-DNA complex, leading to DNA strand breaks and apoptosis in rapidly dividing cancer cells. Due to poor solubility and stability issues, research focuses on delivery methods such as liposomal formulations or structural analogs to enhance bioavailability and reduce toxicity.