OSU-03012 (AR-12) is primarily investigated for its potential anticancer properties. It functions by inhibiting the activity of PDK1 (3-phosphoinositide-dependent protein kinase-1), a key enzyme in the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, which is often overactive in various cancers. This inhibition leads to reduced cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis in tumor cells. The compound has shown activity against a range of cancer types in preclinical studies, including glioblastoma, melanoma, and prostate cancer. It also demonstrates the ability to enhance the effectiveness of other anticancer agents, such as chemotherapy and radiation, making it a candidate for combination therapy. In addition to oncology, OSU-03012 has exhibited antimicrobial and antiviral effects. It has been studied for its ability to interfere with pathogen replication, including viruses like influenza and certain intracellular bacteria, by disrupting host cell pathways that pathogens exploit. Its broad-spectrum activity and ability to target host-based mechanisms rather than pathogens directly may reduce the likelihood of resistance development, which is particularly valuable in antimicrobial therapy. However, its clinical use remains experimental, with ongoing research focused on optimizing efficacy and safety.