CEP-1347 is primarily investigated for its potential therapeutic applications, particularly in the field of neurodegenerative diseases. It functions as an inhibitor of mixed lineage kinase (MLK) activity, which plays a significant role in the signaling pathways leading to neuronal cell death via downstream activation of JNK (c-Jun N-terminal kinase). This makes it a promising candidate for treating conditions such as Parkinson's disease, where preventing neuronal degeneration is crucial. Additionally, research has explored its use in mitigating apoptosis in other cell types, suggesting broader applications in conditions involving programmed cell death. Its ability to modulate cellular stress responses also positions it as a potential agent in cancer research, where controlling cell survival pathways is critical. Ongoing studies continue to evaluate its efficacy and safety in these contexts, including animal models of neuroprotection.