MK-8617 is primarily investigated for its potential therapeutic application in the treatment of androgen-related conditions, most notably prostate cancer. As a selective androgen receptor degrader (SARD), it functions by binding to the androgen receptor and promoting its degradation, thereby reducing the receptor’s availability to stimulate tumor growth. This mechanism is particularly valuable in castration-resistant prostate cancer, where traditional androgen deprivation therapies become less effective. MK-8617 has shown promise in preclinical studies for overcoming resistance mutations in the androgen receptor, including those that lead to antagonism-to-agonism switch with older antiandrogens. Its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier may also offer advantages in preventing or treating central nervous system metastases. Due to its oral bioavailability and targeted action, MK-8617 represents a next-generation approach in hormone-sensitive cancer therapy, with ongoing research focused on optimizing dosing and evaluating long-term efficacy and safety in clinical trials.