Tandutinib (MLN518) is primarily used in research settings for its inhibitory effects on specific tyrosine kinases involved in cancer cell proliferation. It targets FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3), platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR), and c-KIT, making it a valuable tool in studying hematologic malignancies such as acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Its ability to inhibit FLT3 internal tandem duplication (ITD) mutants has drawn particular interest, as these mutations are associated with poor prognosis in AML patients. Researchers use Tandutinib to explore signaling pathway disruption in leukemic cells, assess apoptosis induction, and evaluate potential combination therapies with other anticancer agents. Due to its kinase selectivity profile, it also serves as a reference compound in preclinical screening of new kinase inhibitors.