Atuveciclib (BAY-1143572) is primarily investigated for its potential in cancer therapy. It functions as a selective inhibitor of cyclin-dependent kinase 9 (CDK9), which plays a crucial role in transcription regulation by controlling the elongation phase of RNA polymerase II. By inhibiting CDK9, Atuveciclib disrupts the transcription of key survival genes in cancer cells, leading to their apoptosis. This mechanism is particularly relevant in cancers that are dependent on the overexpression of anti-apoptotic proteins, such as certain types of leukemia and lymphoma. Clinical trials are exploring its efficacy as a monotherapy and in combination with other anticancer agents to enhance treatment outcomes. Additionally, its ability to target transcription makes it a promising candidate for overcoming resistance to conventional therapies in various malignancies.