VX-702 is primarily investigated for its potential in treating inflammatory and autoimmune diseases due to its action as a p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitor. By blocking the p38 pathway, it reduces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1, and IL-6, which play key roles in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It has been studied in clinical trials for rheumatoid arthritis, showing promise in reducing disease activity and inflammation markers. Its development highlights the therapeutic strategy of targeting intracellular signaling pathways involved in chronic inflammation.