Picropodophyllol is primarily investigated for its potent anti-cancer properties, particularly due to its ability to selectively inhibit the insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R). This inhibition disrupts signaling pathways involved in tumor cell proliferation, survival, and metastasis, making it a promising candidate in oncology research. It has shown activity against various cancer types including glioblastoma, melanoma, and sarcoma in preclinical studies. Unlike some chemotherapeutic agents, picropodophyllol exhibits selective toxicity toward cancer cells with minimal effects on normal cells, which may reduce side effects in potential therapeutic use. Additionally, it has been explored for its ability to overcome drug resistance in tumor cells, enhancing the efficacy of other anti-cancer treatments. Research is ongoing to evaluate its potential in clinical settings.