Thalirugidine is primarily investigated for its potential antiviral properties, particularly against certain enveloped viruses. It functions by interfering with viral entry into host cells, likely through interaction with viral surface glycoproteins or host cell receptors. This mechanism makes it a candidate for early-stage therapeutic intervention in viral infections.

It has shown inhibitory activity in vitro against some herpesviruses and coronaviruses, prompting interest in its use as a lead compound for drug development. Due to its unique structure, it may also serve as a molecular scaffold for synthesizing derivatives with enhanced bioavailability and potency.

Currently, research remains in preclinical stages, with no approved clinical applications. However, its selective action and low cytotoxicity in certain cell lines support further exploration in antiviral therapy and virology research.