Exisulind is primarily studied for its potential applications in cancer prevention and treatment. It has shown promise in inducing apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in various cancer cells, particularly in colorectal, prostate, and breast cancers. The compound works by selectively inhibiting cyclic GMP phosphodiesterase (PDE5), leading to increased intracellular cGMP levels that promote cell death pathways. This makes it a candidate for chemopreventive strategies. Research is ongoing to further understand its mechanisms and optimize its therapeutic potential in oncology.