Poloxin is primarily recognized for its role as a potent inhibitor of Polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1), a key enzyme involved in cell cycle regulation, particularly during mitosis. Its application is largely focused on cancer research, where it is used to study the effects of PLK1 inhibition on tumor cell proliferation and survival. By disrupting PLK1 activity, Poloxin can induce mitotic arrest and apoptosis in cancer cells, making it a valuable tool for understanding the mechanisms of cell division and identifying potential therapeutic targets. Additionally, Poloxin is utilized in preclinical studies to evaluate its efficacy as a chemotherapeutic agent, particularly in cancers that are highly dependent on PLK1 for growth and survival. Its ability to selectively target cancer cells while sparing normal cells further highlights its potential in developing targeted cancer therapies.