Merimepodib is primarily investigated for its potential therapeutic applications, particularly in the treatment of viral infections and certain cancers. It functions as a selective inhibitor of inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH), an enzyme crucial for the synthesis of guanine nucleotides, which are essential for viral replication and cancer cell proliferation. In the context of viral infections, such as hepatitis C, merimepodib has shown promise in reducing viral load by inhibiting the replication of the virus. Additionally, its role in cancer therapy is being explored due to its ability to impede the growth of rapidly dividing cancer cells by disrupting nucleotide synthesis. Research is ongoing to evaluate its efficacy and safety in clinical settings, potentially offering a new avenue for treatment in these challenging medical conditions.