NVP-AEW541 is a selective inhibitor of the insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R) tyrosine kinase. It is primarily used in research settings to study signaling pathways involved in cell proliferation, survival, and apoptosis. Due to its ability to block IGF-1R activation, it has been investigated for its potential in cancer therapy, particularly in tumors that depend on the IGF-1R pathway for growth, such as certain breast, prostate, and lung cancers. In preclinical studies, NVP-AEW541 has demonstrated antitumor activity by inhibiting tumor cell growth and enhancing the effects of other anticancer agents. It is also used as a tool compound to explore the role of IGF signaling in diabetes and other metabolic disorders, although its main focus remains in oncology research.