Pyrazofurin is primarily utilized in research settings as an antiviral and anticancer agent due to its ability to inhibit inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH), an enzyme critical for nucleotide synthesis. By blocking this enzyme, it disrupts the production of guanine nucleotides, which are essential for DNA and RNA synthesis, thereby inhibiting the proliferation of viruses and cancer cells. In antiviral studies, it has shown activity against RNA viruses, making it a potential candidate for exploring treatments for viral infections. In oncology, its mechanism of action is being investigated for its potential to suppress tumor growth, particularly in cancers that rely heavily on nucleotide biosynthesis. Additionally, pyrazofurin serves as a valuable tool in biochemical research to study nucleotide metabolism and cellular processes. Its application remains largely experimental, with ongoing studies aimed at understanding its efficacy and safety for therapeutic use.