Apratastat is primarily investigated for its potential therapeutic applications in the treatment of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. It functions as a selective inhibitor of TACE (TNF-α converting enzyme), which plays a critical role in the release of TNF-α, a pro-inflammatory cytokine. By inhibiting TACE, it reduces the levels of TNF-α, thereby mitigating inflammation and its associated symptoms. This mechanism makes it a promising candidate for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and other TNF-α-mediated disorders. Research is ongoing to evaluate its efficacy and safety in clinical settings, with the aim of developing it as a targeted anti-inflammatory therapy.