Minnelide is primarily investigated for its potent anti-cancer properties, especially in the treatment of aggressive and treatment-resistant tumors. It functions by inhibiting heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) synthesis, which cancer cells rely on to manage stress and avoid cell death. This makes Minnelide particularly effective in targeting pancreatic cancer, where it has shown the ability to reduce tumor growth and improve survival in preclinical models. It is also being studied in other solid tumors such as ovarian, colon, and liver cancers due to its broad anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects. Because Minnelide can disrupt tumor metabolism and suppress the protective mechanisms of cancer cells, it holds promise as a component of combination therapies, especially with chemotherapy or radiation. Its ability to act on the tumor microenvironment and reduce inflammation further enhances its therapeutic potential.