MPI-0479605 is a potent and selective inhibitor of the enzyme dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH), which plays a critical role in the de novo pyrimidine biosynthesis pathway. By inhibiting DHODH, this compound disrupts the production of uridine monophosphate, a precursor for RNA and DNA synthesis, thereby limiting the proliferation of rapidly dividing cells. Its primary application lies in cancer research, particularly in the development of targeted therapies for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and other hematological malignancies. Studies show that MPI-0479605 induces differentiation and apoptosis in leukemia cells by modulating key transcription factors such as MYC and perturbing cellular redox balance. It has demonstrated strong anti-leukemic activity in preclinical models, including those resistant to conventional chemotherapy. Additionally, MPI-0479605 is used as a pharmacological tool to study pyrimidine metabolism and its impact on cell cycle progression and differentiation. Due to its selectivity and potency, it serves as a lead compound for optimizing new DHODH inhibitors with improved pharmacokinetic and safety profiles. Its application in combination therapies is also being explored to enhance treatment efficacy and overcome drug resistance.