DHODH-IN-17 is primarily utilized in the field of medical research, particularly in the study of diseases that involve abnormal cell proliferation, such as cancer and autoimmune disorders. It functions as an inhibitor of the dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH) enzyme, which plays a critical role in the de novo pyrimidine biosynthesis pathway. By blocking this enzyme, DHODH-IN-17 effectively restricts the production of nucleotides necessary for DNA and RNA synthesis, thereby inhibiting the growth and replication of rapidly dividing cells. This mechanism makes it a promising candidate for the development of targeted therapies, especially in oncology, where it can potentially be used to slow or halt tumor progression. Additionally, its application extends to the study of viral infections, as some viruses rely on the host cell's pyrimidine synthesis for replication. Researchers are also exploring its potential in treating inflammatory diseases, where excessive immune cell proliferation contributes to tissue damage. Overall, DHODH-IN-17 serves as a valuable tool for understanding cellular processes and developing novel therapeutic strategies.