TH588 is primarily investigated for its potential as an anticancer agent, specifically due to its ability to inhibit MTH1 (mutT homolog 1), a protein involved in DNA damage repair pathways in cancer cells. By blocking MTH1, TH588 prevents the clearance of oxidized nucleotides, leading to the accumulation of DNA damage and subsequent cancer cell death. This mechanism is particularly effective in cancer cells with high levels of oxidative stress, making TH588 a candidate for selective tumor targeting. It has shown cytotoxic effects in various cancer cell lines, including melanoma, lung, and colon cancers, often enhancing the efficacy of other DNA-damaging agents such as chemotherapy or radiation. Research also suggests TH588 may overcome resistance to conventional therapies by exploiting the altered redox state of tumor cells. Due to its promising preclinical activity, TH588 is used as a research tool to study DNA repair mechanisms and oxidative stress responses in oncology. However, its development remains largely in the experimental stage, with ongoing studies focused on improving selectivity and reducing off-target effects.